Walk in Love
ICS Daily Devotions
- Luke 6:32-35 (NKJV) “But if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. And if you lend to those from whom you hope to receive back, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil.
All believers can experience righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. However, we must deny ourselves, take up the cross, and walk in love. God has empowered us to do so with the help of the Holy Spirit and our born-again nature.
Borrowing and lending money are sensitive matters, even among relatives, so how much more so when it involves church members? We should never borrow money from anyone in church. For those who have done so, you should have the integrity to repay it as soon as possible. We should never borrow money to sustain a lifestyle, nor should we rely on credit. We should live within our means and, when necessary, adjust our standards of living. It is often preferable to seek help from family members when facing financial needs. During times of financial difficulty, it is advisable to consider liquidating assets and investments.
Perhaps you have given money to others in times of financial need. We must be wise in handling situations when people want to borrow money from us, as we don’t want to encourage them, and it may not be in their best interest. If the person returns the money, it would be a bonus, but if they fail to return it, we should also be mentally prepared to write it off. Sometimes, there may not even be a word of gratitude. However, you can be assured that God remembers and takes notes of it.
We live in a fallen world. People can sometimes be selfish, unkind, cruel, and rude. Although many such individuals will enter our lives, we can respond to them in very different ways. Vindictive actions and words destroy families and relationships, robbing us of our joy and peace. Jesus has called us to be different, as we have crucified our old selves with Christ and are empowered by the Holy Spirit to love. The world cannot see Jesus physically, but they can see Christ in us when we choose to live for Him by denying ourselves and walking in love.
Sermon Series: Dying to Self
