Judges 6,7; Psalm 52; I Corinthian 14

"Let love be your highest goal, but also desire the special abilities the Spirit gives, especially the gift of prophecy." I Cor. 14:1

Over and over again, in Paul’s writings, he takes us back to what is primary to successful Kingdom living—love! In this portion of scripture, one that deals with Spirit-filled living, Paul starts by establishing a plumb line and that is “let LOVE be your highest goal…” This reminds us of other portions the Apostle has penned regarding love. “If I could speak all the languages of the earth and of angels, but didn’t love others, I would only be a noisy gong or a clashing cymbal.” (I Corinthians 13:1 NLT) “Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity” (Col. 3:14 NASB) “Love is patient. Love is kind. Love isn't jealous. It doesn't sing its own praises. It isn't arrogant.” (I Corinthians 13:4) Paul continues to herald this pressing principle because he recognizes that LOVE is the central truth that holds the church together. Where there is love, there will be unity, cooperation, hope and teamwork. So much more is accomplished when we are working together in love. Paul goes on to instruct the Corinthians regarding love and spiritual abilities. He wants them to experience the power and joy of speaking in tongues but also that there are more benefits to the body of Christ when the gift of prophecy is exercised, again, all of these gifts operate most efficiently when rooted in love. Basically, he is saying, everything operates better when love is the highest goal. May this portion of scripture today encourage you to operate with love as your highest goal. I pray that God’s love fills you to overflowing and that you will operate in the spiritual gifts that are available to you through the promises in the Word of God.

In Him,
Carol Danna
Next Reading: Judges 8; Psalm 42; I Corinthians 15