Bible Reading: Ps. 87 & 88; Romans 13
“Love works no ill to its neighbor: therefore, love is the fulfilling of the Law” – Rom 13:10 (KJV).
‘Love’ is fulfilled not only by positive commands (i.e., things we are to do, Rom 12:9-21; 1Cor 13:4; 6-7), but also by “negative” ones (i.e., things we should not do). All of the commands mentioned in the following passages involve things that Christians should not do because they could bring harm or negative influence on others. Love must always look to the good and best interests of others (Philippians 2:3-5).
Love is positive; yet it must also be negative (i.e., placing restrictions on certain behaviours) in that it takes into account the overwhelming human tendency towards sin, selfishness and cruelty. Eight of the ten Commandments are restrictions (i.e., they address things God’s people must not do, Exodus 20) because sin comes naturally while goodness does not.
The first evidence of Christian love is turning from offenses and willingly giving up anything that brings harm and sorrow to others.
Prayer: O Lord give me a heart filled with Love.
Pastor Lawrence Chiazor