As the Apostle Paul said in Romans 12:5, "We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other."
But what does that look like in practice?
A close look at 1 Corinthians 13:7 gives us some clues...
Love always PROTECTS.
The word for protects here literally translates "to cover with silence."
Sounds to me like the church in Corinth had some trouble with loose lips - gossip. If you've lived long at all, you've likely been hurt by gossip, and you've probably hurt somebody by gossiping.
Proverbs 11:13 says: "Gossips betray a confidence, but the trustworthy keep a secret."
What is gossip?
Gossip happens when talking about a problem with someone who isn’t a part of the problem or part of the solution.
Gossip is on par with sexual immorality and murder.
Gossip is probably more responsible for tearing families, friendships, and churches apart than any other thing.
Why is this a big deal for a church? Community is built on confidentiality. Without feeling confident that you're stuff will be protected, you won't open up. When you don't open up, you're still alone, even if you're surrounded by others.
What to do... A friend stops gossip in its tracks when he hears it. When you pass on stolen goods, you’re an accessory to a crime. When you pass along gossip, or don’t do anything about it when it comes your way, you are an accessory to the crime of gossip.
Love always BELIEVES.
We're called to believe in each other. We need to trust people until they prove you wrong. We need to start everybody with a clean slate.
We're also called to believe for each other (see Mark 2:1-12).
Love always HOPES.
Rick Warren looks at hope as an acronym: HOLDING ON PRAYING EXPECTANTLY
Hope thinks the best of a person - a real friend will let you share your victories without judging.
So, be enthusiastic about other people’s accomplishments. Be a cheerleader, because everybody is discouraged.
Love always PERSEVERES
Love walks in when everyone else is walking out. Love makes time. Love can be counted on in the good times and the hard times. Love is tough enough to stay when you get your feelings hurt.
Friends love through all kinds of weather, and families stick together in all kinds of trouble.
Proverbs 17:17.
Friends come and friends go, but a true friend sticks by you like family.
Proverbs 18:24
Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.
Jesus, from John 13:34-35
Be good friends who love deeply; practice playing second fiddle.
Romans 12:10
Romans 12:10
This week’s challenge: Invite someone into the CrossWalk community. Help them find love, encouragement, hope, strength, direction, peace.
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