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Faith, Hope, and Love

"And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love."
1 Corinthians 13:13

I started pondering this verse tonight on my walk back from Bible study up at the Lighthouse. As I was dwelling on God's Word, I began to think about these three qualities individually.

Faith:
In recent months, God has revealed to me that what our faith is based upon is far more important than the quantity of our faith. If our faith is placed anywhere other than in Jesus Christ, we believe in vein because we lack truth. However, faith the size of a mustard seed can grow a multitude of fruit when that faith is in Christ.

In my studies, I have continually seen God's grace add to my faith, and I humbly give Him the credit and the glory for my faith.

Hope:
Hebrews tells us that faith is the assurance of things hoped for. So what are those things hoped for? Where is my hope? Where are my sights set? My hope is in the promise of Jesus Christ that all who believe in Him will not perish but have eternal life. My eyes are fixed on Jesus, the author and perfecter of my faith. The transformation I have experienced is more than enough assurance that Jesus is who He says He is. Just because the world laughs at the mere mention of Christ, does not mean that He is any less real and that His message is any less true. Be assured that Jesus indeed rose from the dead and will return. Let us hope in His promise and have faith that He loves us!

Love:
Jesus said that the greatest commandment is to love the Lord your God. The second greatest is to love your neighbor as yourself. In light of our faith and our hope, love should prevail. It pours out from a sincere faith and overcomes the hatred found in the world. Love is patient and kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.

Lord, may we learn to love in the way that you love us. May we rejoice with the truth. May we trust and persevere knowing that all things work for the good of those who love you who are called according to your purpose. May we know your love that never fails. Amen

Comments

  1. EHDecember 17, 2008 at 9:41 PM

    I read this in Francis Chan's new book- insert your name in the verse for love example- Matt is patient so on and so forth lets just say I might of failed the exam. Hey good thoughts here.

    ReplyDelete

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