“And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.” (1 Peter 4:8)

In 1st Peter chapter 4, the apostle uses an interesting word to describe the love we are to have for one another. He says we are to have a “fervent” love. In the Greek, this word means “stretched out” and carries with it a picture of a runner straining for the finish line. It’s a vivid image of a love that never quits. This love is a marathon type of love, not a sprint.

What does this “stretched out” love look like? Peter answers this question with the next quote, “Love will cover a multitude of sins.” In other words, a fervent, stretched-out love is a love that forgives no matter the cost. Like a marathon runner continues despite the burning in his lungs and the cramps in his muscles because he desires to achieve the goal, so we should endure the pain of rejection and the harsh words of those around us with a love in our hearts and a forgiving spirit. How can we love like this? We can love this way because Christ first loved us. He loved us even when we were sinners. He loved us, even when we rebelled against Him. He loved us with stretched out arms on the cross. Let’s love each other in the same way.

“We should stretch ourselves in order to love one another. This means being willing to forgive no matter the cost.”

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I thank You for Your love and ask that You would help me to love others in the same way. Help me to forgive often, love unconditionally and serve those around me. Use my fervent love to draw others to Your amazing grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Rob Lavallee

Scriptural Seeds Ministries

http://www.scripturalseeds.org