I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, with all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love, endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Ephesians 4:1-3 (KJV)
The process seems difficult, laborious, and exerting great effort to bear with someone. As we read this Scripture, we are reminded of what we should do as we form relationships and bonds with those with whom we come into contact. In addition to family members, forming relationships and bonds can also be with co-workers. During Paul’s address to the people of Ephesus, he admonished them to treat each other with love. The truth is that this is not always so easy to do, especially if there is a history of untoward behaviour displayed by the individual.
It is important, however, that we do not judge the actions of others based on the limited knowledge we possess. Demonstrating God’s love is paramount in these situations and relationships. Additionally, Paul urges us to do so with humility, and gentleness, being cognisant that the ultimate goal is maintaining peace and unity. If we make a conscious and deliberate effort to first treat others with love, humility, gentleness, and patience, with the goal of maintaining peace and unity, wouldn’t our world be changed? Wouldn’t that be the kind of society we would all like to live in?
Bearing with each other, also means that we do so without judgement. Our lives should be filled with the love of Christ so that we please Him in all that we do. It is our responsibility to demonstrate His love to those around us in a tangible and meaningful manner in order to reflect the Kingdom we represent. Let us be reminded as we go about our daily routines that we are all called to serve others with a higher purpose. It is God’s will that each of us live deliberately so as to bear with one another. Meaning that we do so, not in judgement but rather in love for one another.
Prayer
Dear Father, I come before You recognising the need to forbear with my brothers and sisters in Christ. Dear Lord, I ask that You help me when I am quick to judge and allow me to lean upon You in order to represent You in my daily walk. Help me to demonstrate Your love daily. In Jesus’s name. Amen.
Read: 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, Ephesians 4:1-6; Colossians 3:12-17
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 95; I Corinthians 7:36-40; I Corinthians 8; Ecclesiastes 7; Ecclesiastes 8; Ecclesiastes 9:1-12
