1 Corinthians 13:5-6
It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
Paul goes on to describe four things we have to bear in mind when we exercise "love" towards others:
1) Not easily angered: The anger of man does not fulfill the righteousness of God. Some people may say their anger is a "righteous anger" that fights for the truth. But when you truly search your heart, are you really fighting for the truth or merely fighting to defend your views? There are many religious wars in the church history that are the result of the carnal man inside of us. Pray that God will give us a gentle and humble heart to face all kinds of controversy, and not be easily angered. The Bible says "In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry" because anger gives the devil a foothold over us. Pray that God will help us not to be easily angered.
2) Do not keep record of wrongs. Keeping record of wrongs is like book keeping. Do not repeatedly think about how others mistreated you. The Bible teaches us to meditate on God's word and think about whatever is noble and whatever is right. Do not keep record of wrongs, but submit the wrongdoings we may have suffered to the Lord. He will comfort us and heal us.
3) Do not delight in evil: The thing that brings about the most division both in the church and in the family, is words of criticisms and accusations. Every time I hear these words, my heart is saddened. I find that the human nature tends to think the worst of others and seeks to misunderstand. If there is true love in our hearts, we will not believe in words that bring accusation to brothers and sisters in the church. Instead, we will seek to resolve the misunderstanding. This is a choice in life. Do you try to think the worst of others, or give others the benefit of the doubt? Do you choose to misunderstand or choose to understand? Pray that God will help us.
4) Rejoice with the truth: Especially in the area of spiritual gifts, although it is good to debate over the truth, do not insist on your own views. Many people when asked about the charismatic movement will take the Word of God as a shield, and attack the charismatic. May God help us not to judge others with God's Word, but to allow God's Word to transform us and enlighten us, so that we may become more like Jesus and allow the will of God to be satisfied in our lives.
Pray with Pastor Tong
Lord, once again we ask that you forgive us for being easily angered, keeping record of wrongs, for delighting in evil and not rejoicing in the truth. Pray that you will enlighten us today and help us turn back to you. May we be willing to love one another, with the true love that comes from you. We thank you and pray in the victorious name of Jesus, Amen!
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