“Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer; distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality. – Romans 12:10-13(KJV)
The above scriptural quote clearly speaks of what should be obtain in relationship among Christian in the community. It is expected that we should have a feeling of strong attachment to one another bonded in love, giving preference to others before ourselves. The Christian life should be a life to be emulated, a reference point for sound and decent character. If every Christian should live by this scriptural injunction we will preach less and win more souls to the kingdom. When the unsaved see a decent living and true brotherly love among brethren, which demonstrates a genuine separation from the vices in the world they will be attracted to us and with little persuasion will embrace Christ. We will be the true epistle of Christ written in the table of our heart and read by all men. Instead of showing true and genuine love to one another the reverse is the case. There are interdenominational conflicts and open criticism. We even carry animosity among us to the television houses. We fight over irrelevant and inconsequential issues. We backbite and slander one another, exhibit deep hatred and use the pulpit to settle scores. The love that our Saviour cherished and admonished us on seems to have been overtaken by envy and jealousy. In John 15:12(KJV) Jesus said “This is my commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you”. Where is this love today? It has been swallowed up by division and denominational spirit operating among us. We struggle to outshine one another and create intense competition which further divide us.
As Christian we have been admonished by Apostle Paul to imbibe hard work, be persistent in the spirit and be totally committed and dedicated to our stewardship in Christ. God reward service and obedience as expounded in Exodus 23:25-26. In our work place we must be an example of resilience and tenacity in performing our given task. We must be seen as pacesetters and achievers at work. Our Christian standard must be firm and uncompromising. Our attitude must represent Christian, we must comport ourselves with decorum. We must be solution providers and always striving for the best. That is a true representation of Christ.
Prayer: Father give me the heart to live for you all the days of my life.
Br. Joel Ezeugo