Ephesians 4:2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.
We turn to Ephesians today and have the words of Paul where once again he uses agape to describe the love we should have for one another. He again uses the term agape rather than phileo or eros or any other form of love, giving us that perfect, divine love, once more.
Agape is not just a feeling. It is a decision, a conscious effort and choice, to bear with (anechomenoi) others, which requires that we take responsibility for and support one another in the community. When we experience agape love, we bear with faults which does not lead to bitterness, but rather to a gracious, forgiving, and patient attitude.
Paul talks about being completely humble and gentle. Completely, wholly, entirely. Not just partially. The meaning of this is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less. It is us recognizing our proper place before God and others, rather than seeking self-elevation or self-glorification.
When we bear with one another in love, we are continually and proactively enduring, tolerating, and supporting one another, especially in challenging relationships, without holding grudges or keeping a record of wrongs. This is true Christian love and brings about a sense of community and fellowship. True unity is maintained through active, loving effort. And the only way to do this is through Him. He empowers us and enables us to love as He loves, to love others through us.
Today reach out to others in love and give yourself wholly. Let God use you to love others and be that conduit for His grace and goodness.
Prayer: Lord, Thank You for using me to love others. Empower me, guide me, and show me how to love others with Your divine love. Amen
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