Real Love

Bible Reading: Matthew 22:37-40

“You can’t judge me…. Don’t tell me how to live my life… I’m an adult…”

So many Christians are rejecting correction. We only want to hear preaching about prosperity and blessings, but when we are confronted with teaching about our sin and the consequences, we reject it and yell, “only God can judge me.”

We have confused correction and accountability with judgement. The Bible is clear, as Christians, we are to be held accountable to one another so that we don’t fall into temptation. Galations 6:1-2

Matthew 22 tells us that the greatest commandment is to love. Love God and our neighbor. We freely welcome the love that says, “I will bless you.” Or, “I love you, you are so amazing.” However, another form of love is correction. Hebrews 12:6 teaches us that God chastened those He loves. This form of love will challenge our mindset and way of living.

The truth is our hearts are deceitfully wicked and sin feels good. This is why we will try to justify our sinful lifestyle choices when the bible is clear, and not up for interpretation, on how we should live. Jeremiah 17:9.

Each and everyone of us struggle and is tempted daily. But God didn’t intend for us to stay there. While we were still sinners, Christ died for us! Today, ask God to identify what part of your life needs to look more like Him.

If you attend a church where you are always hearing blessing and prosperity or you are never challenged to live according to the word of God, I would encourage you to pray and ask God to reveal to you any areas of your life that need changing so you can live better for Him. Pray that He blesses you with people that will love you enough to challenge your way of living. And then, love Him enough to accept what He shows you.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank You so much for Your unconditional love. I know that there are times that Your love won’t always feel good, and will be challenging to accept. But allow me to know it is love nonetheless. Father, place people in my life that won’t encourage my sin, but will love me enough to correct me and hold me accountable when I am not living for You. It is my desire to please You in every area of my life. I pray this prayer in the precious name of Jesus, Amen!