Bible Reading: 1 Timothy 2:1-4
What kind of people does your circle of friends include? What kind does it exclude?
Hanging out with a person just because he or she has money or is of a certain race,
religion, or nationality is self-centered and arrogant.
Avoiding making friends with someone who lacks money or is of a certain race, religion, or nationality is just as self-centered and arrogant.
God loves everyone and wants “all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth” (verse 4). God expects us to demonstrate His love and acceptance to everyone. To do this, we must –
* Talk to everyone as friends.
* Treat all people with love and respect.
* Include them in our daily lives.
* Help them when they are in need.
* Pray for them.
* Pray with them.
When we have done those things, we will have the opportunity to tell them about Jesus and God’s offer of salvation and to take the love and acceptance that God has shown to us and pass it on.
“The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9
Prayer: Heavenly Father, put Your love into my heart and help me to pass it on to others.
Comments