14
Constant Cognizance of Love
John TiltonGalatians 5:13-15
You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free.But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh[a];rather, serve one anotherhumbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”[b] If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.
Paul reminded them at the time of what their new freedom in Jesus Christ was meant for, and how they were called to manifest that freedom in their lives amongst one another. This freedom released them from the strict judgement and edict of the laws to the power of Christ, His way, His will that would be enacted through them in love. Furthermore, the freedom of Christ was meant to free them from devouring and destroying one another in words and actions.
I find that I am so encouraged by hearing and receiving the scriptures, principles and precepts of the Bible that clearly teach me of what is right, wrong and not edifying. The key and hope is that the Word would go from my mind to my heart so that in unexpected instances and situations, my reaction to the words and actions of people would be representative of the Word, rather than my old ways that often are evidence of self, pride and judgment. I can at times take on offenses of others, place myself in battles that aren’t mine, and often find turmoil brewing within that can cause me to blow my testimony of who I am called to be. Often too, it is those unexpected instances and situations that are the most critical in relationships and opportunities to example Christ in me. I am seek to be constantly cognizant of the need for the love of Christ that is within me, to go from my mind to my heart, mouth and hands with a response of words and actions that would edify and encourage, rather than execute of entangle hearts, perceptions and relationships.
Dear Lord, please guide me through the Holy Spirit to be prepared with a constant and cognizant covering of your love within me, that would immediately be the first reaction of unexpected and unanticipated instances and situations.
