The Most Excellent Way
The Greatest of These – Part 2
Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 13:1-13
Key Verse: 1 Corinthians 12:31
But eagerly desire the greater gifts. And now I will show you the most excellent way.
As we pick up where we left off in yesterday’s devotional, let’s look closer at God’s love. The Apostle Paul paints a picture of it very clearly in 1 Corinthians 13. He sets up this description in the last verse of chapter 12 (1 Corinthians 12:31): “And now I will show you the most excellent way.” In other words, as Christ followers there are many believers and activities we will exhibit and participate in, but none of them compare to the importance of love!
The apostle starts with patience; when you live it, you live God’s love. When you give it, you give God’s love! The same is true with kindness, humility, gentleness, protecting, trusting, filled with hope and persevering—it’s all a picture of God’s love to us and through us.
Review the last few days of your life and the interactions you’ve had with people. Start the review with the people you live with. Move on to the people you live by and don’t forget the people you work with. Did God’s love flow through you to them? Did people around you receive patience from you? Kindness? Humility? Gentleness? In other words, is your life full of God’s love overflowing to others? The Bible says this is the most excellent way; the greatest aspect of our walk with God. Let’s get serious about loving people!
Father, forgive my selfish focus on my issues. Remind me today to love those I’m around with your love. In Jesus’ name, amen.