HOW TO KNOW YOU ARE GROWING (VII)

When I got her text message recounting some of the moments she had been through in her life’s journey, I rolled over from the bed to the floor and burst into tears. Rather than feel disgusted, the love in my heart skyrocketed to an amazingly great level.

Love is not pity. Love is proof that you have encountered the resurrection power of God. You have moved from death to life. If you have been touched by God’s love, you have a duty to pass it on. 

Do you remember the leper that came to Jesus? He asked that if Jesus is willing, he should make him whole. Jesus before healing him touched him. Who touches a leper? 

I heard of a couple who decided to live in a lepers colony so they can share the gospel. They said to those who discouraged them, “Are there no souls behind those walls?”  

Do you know those dirty young beggars that grab your hands in some cities, how do you treat them? Are you quick to shove them aside? 

I remember driving with a dear one couple of years ago who said derogatory things about a young boy tapping the car and asking for alms. He called the boy a thief. I was unsettled. 

Love is also proof that your mind is being renewed by the knowledge of God. Love is the weapon of the believer to win souls. Love is our tool for building unity. 

A believer who knows the love of God is not tied to tribal sentiments. He or she does not say, “I cannot marry from that tribe” or “I cannot do business with that tribe”. In Christ, there is no Greek or Jew. 

A Christian walking in love does not call her leaders’ unwholesome names. For instance, how do you say “stupid governor” or “mad president” and you don’t have a bite in your heart? 

This is what Jesus said: ‘Don’t hit back at all.’ If someone strikes you, stand there and take it. If someone drags you into court and sues for the shirt off your back, giftwrap your best coat and make a present of it. 

And if someone takes unfair advantage of you, use the occasion to practice the servant’s life. No more tit-for-tat stuff. Live generously. 

“You’re familiar with the old written law, ‘Love your friend,’ and its unwritten companion, ‘Hate your enemy.’ I’m challenging that. I’m telling you to love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. 

If all you do is love the lovable, do you expect a bonus? Anybody can do that. If you simply say hello to those who greet you, do you expect a medal? Any run-of-the-mill sinner does that. Matthew 5:38-47 MSG

temilOluwa Ola, Eruwa.