LOVING GOD – LOVING OTHERS
Throughout the world, we find that the month of February is often seen as the season of expressing love. For the servants of God, this season should be every day we live, loving God and loving His people. Yet when we look around our world we find in many instances, no resemblance of the expression of the true intended love of God. The nations of the world can be seen as experiencing a growing spiritual darkness, while in a general sense, the church often sits in a state of lethargy; going through the motions, ‘having a form of godliness but denying the power thereof (2Tim 3:5).
REVIVAL ON THE HORIZON
Yet, in the midst of it all, we see that God is doing what He said He would; shaking the nations, awakening their need for Him; preparing hearts for a revival comparable only to an early and latter rain together. Let us remember, revival must first begin in us! For every servant of God, let us purpose to go back to what God intended on the Day of Pentecost; ministering in the power and authority of Christ. The key is preparedness. If we are to be ready, we must examine ourselves in the light of God’s Word, asking, ‘Am I loving God with all my heart, soul, mind and strength? Do I love my neighbor as myself – even those who have said or done me wrong? Is my focus as Pastor or leader that of pleasing God or man? Let us consider I John 4:15-19: Do I love as my Savior loves me? I Peter 4:7-11: Am I loving and serving only for God’s glory?
Until we can say yes to being the body of Christ in the manner that God intended, what do we hold out to a lost and dying world? Where the Word of God is the standard ‘norm’, the church will experience revival. Chains will be broken and hope will be found. Be encouraged today Church, as we give our all to loving God – and loving others, we shall be the “The Church Victorious”!
Patricia Atwell – Pastor Emeritus
Barkersville Christian Church, Middle Grove, NY
