Devotional Journal: Reflection on 1 Thessalonians 4:9, 1 John 4:19-21
Brotherly love, what are the implications of this kind of love that we are to display in the body of Christ? Brotherly love is love of a blood relative. Love that gives without requiring something in return. A love that builds and encourages those who are broken and hurt. At the center of this love is selflessness. This kind of interaction is one of the major differences between Christianity and other religions.
As believers in Jesus Christ, we may not be related in the sense of sharing the same earthly parents. However, we are still related by blood. The blood of Jesus Christ makes us apart of His family. He is our Heavenly Father. There is no bond stronger, no relationship that is greater.
Through His love we are taught to love. If it is anything we need more of in this age it is His love. Let us dispel the hate and division that challenges love. When we think that all hope is lost just remember that Jesus love is still active and working throughout the earth. Be filled today in the love of Jesus Christ that you may pour out what He Has given you.
"9 Now concerning brotherly love you have no need for anyone to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love one another,"- 1 Thessalonians 4:9 (ESV)
"19 We love because he first loved us. 20 If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen. 21 And this commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother."- 1 John 4:19-21 (ESV)
The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. 2016. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.
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