Love + Kindness

1 Corinthians 3:1-3 (TPT) Brothers and sisters, when I was with you I found it impossible to speak to you as those who are spiritually mature people, for you are still dominated by the mind-set of the flesh. And because you are immature infants in Christ, I had to nurse you and feed you with “milk,” not with the solid food of more advanced teachings, because you weren’t ready for it. In fact, you are still not ready to be fed solid food, for you are living your lives dominated by the mind-set of the flesh. Ask yourselves: Is there jealousy among you? Do you compare yourselves with others? Do you quarrel like children and end up taking sides? If so, this proves that you are living your lives centered on yourselves, dominated by the mind-set of the flesh, and behaving like unbelievers.

For those who are spiritually mature, do you find it frustrating when you see "seasoned" believers acting like a bunch of babies? Those who should be eating meat are crying for more milk… full of jealousy because of what someone else has yet, won't do anything to mature on their own. Those around you who are dominated by the mind-set of the flesh are missing out on the abundant life of victory that Jesus died for them to have.

My next question is this: what are you doing to guide them? Yes, it is easy to get frustrated but we once had someone in our lives to help us along our journey to spiritual maturity. Some will grow up quicker than others but don't let the frustration of stagnant waters allow you to become bitter and hateful. This is also a learning process for yourself as you are being tested in the fruit of the spirit - love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.

Are you able to remain gentle with someone who is making you absolutely crazy? Can you keep your peace while teaching someone who seems unteachable? Remain faithful to guide them? Keep joy during trying times? One thing is certain, we cannot win the hearts of those against us or those struggling to become better through anger and hatred. Love will win! Love won the victory on the cross and love is what brought us to Jesus. Remember to be gentle in your words and great in your actions.

We must not judge others by their actions and ourselves on our intentions. God knows the hearts of all men, may we be grateful for his mercy, grace and forgiveness toward us. Amen.

1 Corinthians 16:14 (TPT) Let love and kindness be the motivation behind all that you do.

Psalm 86:15 (TPT) But Lord, your nurturing love is tender and gentle. You are slow to get angry yet so swift to show your faithful love. You are full of abounding grace and truth.