The Hardest of These

Scripture: If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not love, I have become as sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not love, I am nothing. If I give all my goods to feed the poor, and if I give my body to be burned, and have not love, it profits me nothing. 1 Corinthians 13:1-3

Observation: I am nothing. With God, the heart is of paramount importance. While actions reflect the hearts, beginning with the heart of God - a heart of love - drives all proper behavior. Without that love, our actions are misguided and misdirected even when they appear great. I regularly fail to have that kind of loving heart even when I perform the actions of God.

Application: Why is loving SO hard? Why do all of us as humans struggle just to think kindly of each other, though we would attempt hard works on a regular basis?

My job is not to trouble myself with IT problems or direct others in running technology. My job is to change the lives of others. I can only do that if I first love them.

Today, I have an opportunity to impact people's lives. I can do it by discussing their failures and providing them direct instructions about how to correct their mistakes ... and I may have to do just that. However, I can also show grace, patience, and kindness. I can value them as people above whatever value their work may have. I can help them move forward in life, not just get through a day of their lives. I need to make this choice.

Prayer: Lord, this morning, please grant me your patience and love. I cannot have what I need within my heart on my own. I need your Spirit. Please support me, and allow me to serve others. Amen.