MONDAY October 26, 2026
Fervent Love
And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.”
1 Peter 4:8
Peter had spoken much about practically living our lives for Christ, in light of the times we live in––the Last Days. In 1 Peter 4:7, he exhorted us to be watchful and pray. But now, he placed having a fervent love for one another above those priorities. It is the agape, unconditional love of God in our lives toward others that must be evident.
Christians must not only understand the love of Christ, but they are to show the love of Christ to others. There is so much hatred in this world; it is the love of Christ that sets us apart. Listen to how Jesus confirmed that truth: "By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another" (John 13:35). Love is the identifying mark of a true Christian––a true work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer.
During the Jesus People Movement, there was a noticeable movement of God’s love being poured out. It was an amazing time of revival marked by Christian love for one another. Hippies cared less about materialism and lived simple, carefree lives. Christ was their first love. Today, has the Church lost its first love for Jesus Christ? In Revelation 2, there is a relevant rebuke to the church of Ephesus:
I know your works, your labor, your patience, and that you cannot bear those who are evil. And you have tested those who say they are apostles and are not ... and have patience, and have labored for My name’s sake and have not become weary. Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love (Revelation 2:2-4).
Notice, we can be tirelessly serving the Lord, but neglect keeping the fire of our first love for Christ burning. How do we cultivate our love for Christ? Think of your marriage. You can be busy making sure everything is taken care of in the home, but if you have not spoken one loving word to your spouse in weeks, do you think they would question your love? Of course they would! If our relationship with Christ comes first; then our outward works become an expression of that love in all we do for Him.
Let us show our love for Christ by loving our fellow Christians.
~C.H. Spurgeon~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
