1 Thessalonians 4:9 But concerning brotherly love [for all other Christians], you have no need to have anyone write you, for you yourselves have been [personally] taught by God to love one another. Amplified Bible (AMP)
As Christians we are to love people, to show Christ's love. But there is a special love, a special bond between believers, between brothers and sisters in Christ. They share common hopes, common dreams, common concerns and common hearts for their family in Christ.
Paul makes note of this in Galatians 6:10" So then, as occasion and opportunity open up to us, let us do good [[a]morally] to all people [not only being useful or profitable to them, but also doing what is for their spiritual good and advantage]. Be mindful to be a blessing, especially to those of the household of faith [those who belong to God's family with you, the believers]."
These thoughts were brought home to me, personally, in a powerful way. My wife Jean has an appointment today with an oncologist. We are not sure what we will hear but there is definitely some fear and apprehension. But as she shared this with friends a group of them invited us over and prayed over her, prayed over us. They shared their hearts, their prayers, their faith and their hope. Non Christians can show concern, but the prayer of the "saints" brought out what the "especially" means in Galatians 6:10. We have felt this "brotherly love".
We are thankful for our brothers and sisters in Christ, and covet their prayers.
In Christ,
Mike
Follow the Verse of the Day blog at http://mikesvotd.blogspot.com
Eph 1:7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace NIV
Eph 1:7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace NIV
1 Thessalonians 4:8-10
English Standard Version (ESV)
8 Therefore whoever disregards this, disregards not man but God, who gives his Holy Spirit to 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, 10 for that indeed is what you are doing to all the brothers throughout Macedonia. But we urge you, brothers, to do this more and more,
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