Review

We may all want to be the embodiment of love as described in 1st Corinthians 13, but that's not our current reality, is it? Yet it could be said of Jesus; He could be the embodiment of love in that He is patient and kind, does not envy, and does not boast. As we review this week, we can ask, “am I being unloving?” Any time that we are being impatient or unkind, or are in a position of envy, we are -- at that time -- in the position of not loving. Any time we act proudly, dishonor others, or seek first for ourselves, we clearly are not acting in love.

Repent if Necessary

This is an opportunity to repent of being unloving in certain situations. Are you keeping a record of wrongs? If so, you're not acting in love. Use the list above from 1 Corinthians 13 to identify where you have lacked a loving attitude. Then, in conversation with your Father, repent of it.

Return (as necessary)

If you desire more patience, pursue love – love is patient. Are you struggling with anger? Pursue love. As you return to God, you return to the God of love who is patient with you and kind to you. The more you experience God, the more that you experience love. The more you experience such love, the more patient and kind you become, the less self-seeking and less easily angered you become. You will find that you rejoice with truth rather than delighting in evil befalling others.

Prayer

God of love, continue to pour Your love into me that I might express a similar love through patience and kindness, that I might express such a love by withholding anger, swallowing pride, and squashing envy. Let me keep no record of wrongs. I want to reflect You. I pray this in the name of Jesus, the embodiment of love in this life. Amen.

Micro-Meditation

Psalm 119: Immersed in the Word of God

Micro-Meditation

Psalm 119:49-56  7th letter: Zayin (ז) 

49. Remember your word to your servant,
    for you have given me hope.
50. My comfort in my suffering is this:
    Your promise preserves my life.
51. The arrogant mock me unmercifully,
    but I do not turn from your law.
52. I remember, Lord, your ancient laws,
    and I find comfort in them.
53. Indignation grips me because of the wicked,
    who have forsaken your law.
54. Your decrees are the theme of my song
    wherever I lodge.
55. In the night, Lord, I remember your name,
    that I may keep your law.
56. This has been my practice:
    I obey your precepts.
    

Read the versus of the Psalm. 

Mark the words or phrases that catch your attention. 

Meditate: talk (or better, write) with God about those words. Ask him to impress things upon your heart and mind; expect responses.

Teaching or Command of God

Proverbs 6:16-19

There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him:
haughty eyes,
a lying tongue,
hands that shed innocent blood,
a heart that devises wicked schemes, 
feet that are quick to rush into evil,
a false witness who pours out lies
and a person who stirs up conflict in the community.

The Promise

Proverbs 3:33

The Lord’s curse is on the house of the wicked, but he blesses the home of the righteous.

Pondering Point

“Your decrees are the theme of my song;” Is there a Christian song or hymn you whistle to while you work? Sing? Hum? Take a moment and share it with God.

Now share it with others via social media – or SING to them.

Journal Prompt:  

Make a list with some of your favorite songs about God and His “decrees” – like decreeing you are free from your sins!

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