Above all things have fervent love for one another, for "love will cover a multitude of sins." I Peter 4:8.
A woman minister received a call from a friend she had not seen in two years. The friend said, "My husband is leaving me for another woman. I need for you pray with me. "The minister said, "Come quickly."
When her friend arrived, the minister could not help but notice that her friend was carelessly dressed, had gained weight, and had not combed her hair or put on makeup. As they began to converse, the friend admitted to being an uninteresting, nagging wife and a sloppy housekeeper. The minister quickly concluded to herself, My friend has grown to hate herself!
When her friend paused to ask for her advice, the minister said only, "Will you join me in a song?" Surprised, her friend agreed. The minister began to sing, "Jesus loves me, this I know." Her friend joined in, tears flooding her eyes. "If Jesus loves me, I must love myself, too." she concluded.
Amazing changes followed. Because she felt loved and lovable, this woman was transformed into the confident woman she once had been. In the process, she recaptured her husband's heart.
We can never accept God's love beyond the degree to which we are willing to love ourselves. Our part is to believe, to receive, and to give.
Now these remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. I Corinthians 13:13.
Pursue a godly life, along with faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness. I Timothy 6:11.
Above all things put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. Colossians 3:14.
Archbishop Danette M. Scott, Ph.D. A Ray of Hope Ministries Christian Center Sr.Pastor/Founder www.AROHMCC.org
