In the tapestry of Christian teachings, perhaps none resonates as deeply as the exhortation of the Apostle Paul to continue in love. In his letters, Paul urges believers to embrace love as the guiding principle in their lives, reminding us that without it, even the most pious acts ring hollow. However, as we journey in our faith, it’s all too easy to fall into the trap of religious routine, losing sight of the fervent love that ignited our hearts at the beginning of our conversion.
Paul’s words echo through the corridors of time, beckoning us to rekindle the flame of love that once burned brightly within us. In his first letter to the Corinthians, he writes, “And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love” (1 Corinthians 13:13, NIV). Love, he insists, is the pinnacle of Christian virtue, the cornerstone upon which our faith is built.
Yet, despite the simplicity of Paul’s message, the journey of faith is fraught with challenges. As we grow accustomed to the rhythms of church life and the routines of religious practice, we may find ourselves going through the motions, our hearts growing cold and distant. The fervor of our first love may wane, replaced by a sense of duty or obligation.
How, then, do we reignite the passion that once burned within us? How do we break free from the shackles of religious habit and rediscover the love that propelled us into relationship with our Creator?
First and foremost, we must return to the source of love itself: God. In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul writes, “Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God” (Ephesians 5:1-2, NIV). Our love for others must flow from our love for God, springing forth from a deep and intimate relationship with Him.
Secondly, we must cultivate a spirit of gratitude. In his letter to the Colossians, Paul encourages believers to “let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful” (Colossians 3:15, NIV). When we pause to reflect on the immeasurable love and grace that God has lavished upon us, our hearts cannot help but overflow with love for others.
Finally, we must resist the temptation to become complacent in our faith. As Paul admonishes the Galatians, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9, NIV). Even when the journey grows long and the road ahead seems daunting, we must press on, fueled by the love that God has planted within us.
In conclusion, let us heed the timeless wisdom of the Apostle Paul and continue in love. Let us break free from the bonds of religious routine and rediscover the passion that once burned brightly within us. For in love, we find the true essence of our faith—the very heartbeat of God Himself.
Lazarevic Ministries 