May 23, 2017

It's not really a to-do list. These are actions and activities that just work well - for self and others. "Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer, contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality." (Romans 12.9-13) 

Love sincerely. Hate evil and embrace good. Others first. Not slackers, but spiritual achievers. Relish hope amidst life's trials. Live a lifestyle of prayer. Express love in practical ways. 

These are qualities God's Spirit internally stirs up in us. They cause of lives to be a blessing to others, and we personally reap the benefits. They are qualities that harmonize with the coming kingdom, as He works out a display of it now in advance. 

It's not so much that God expects these things of us; it's His character being formed in us that manifests these qualities. As I shared in a recent message, the key isn't try harder, but yield more. As an old saying goes, "Children of God should increasingly resemble their Father."

May His character, and that of His Son, be more fully formed in us today.

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2016
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