The Most Difficult Way
Covering for Others – Part 1

Scripture Reading:  1 Peter 4:7-11

Key Verse: 1 Peter 4:8

Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.

Many years ago I understood our printed key verse to mean that if I loved others, God would be so pleased that He overlooked my sins.  As I studied this verse, it became clear to me that I was the one who needed to overlook sins; the sins of others against me!  God’s love in me would grow me into the person that could look beyond the transgressions of people and see their deeper needs.

This is one of the greatest principles of the New Testament, and the most difficult to live out!  The good news is we have a very clear model to imitate in Jesus himself.  He loves us deeply, consistently even in the face of our failures.  We grieve Him, yet He overcomes that with His great love for us!  What a great privilege to enjoy.  Yet, with privilege comes responsibility.  God does this for us and expects us to grow into a Christ like believer who can pass it on to those around us!

Yes, love is the most excellent way, but it is also the most difficult way!  When someone around you is frustrating you, God expects you to love them anyway!  When someone ignores you; mistreats you; lies about you; and thinks the worst of you, God commands you to love them.  This is a high level of living, but God makes it happen as we obey His instructions.  Let’s take the journey!

Father, I do want to love as you love me.  I know I can’t without a divine work in me.  I will trust you to make me into what I can’t be on my own.  In Jesus’ name, amen.