So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity.
What makes the church work? A focus on others instead of ourselves!
“A heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience”—every one of those words reflects a focus away from self, a focus on other people. In fact, none of the things in this passage could describe a self-centered person.
So we could answer the opposite question, too: What stops the church from working like it should? Self-centered people!
Are you frustrated with your church? Ask yourself, what am I bringing to my church? Do I approach church with a mindset that focuses on others or on myself? Remember Jesus’ example: “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:28).
Today God wants you to allow Him to meet all of your love-needs, so that you’re free to give love in your relationships with others. Put on what He suggests, so you don’t feel put upon: “Put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity.”
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