August 4, 2017
The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. 1 Timothy 1:5 (NIV)
How can you keep growing in love? Paul talks about three gifts from God that will help your love grow.
- A pure heart
Pure means “undivided.” James says, “The double-minded man is unstable in all his ways” (Jas. 1:8). Ask God for a pure heart. Ask him to give you a stronger faith in Christ, a deeper love for Christ, and a firmer hope in Christ. Then you will be able to love. Love comes from a pure heart. - A good conscience
A ‘good’ conscience is at rest with God. Is there a known sin in your life? It’s there and you have allowed it to remain. Your conscience is not at rest. You are fighting all the time. It’s making you an angry and divisive person. It’s the root of your complaining spirit. Can you see what a blessing it would be for you to come clean with Christ today? Then you would be able to love! - A sincere faith
A sincere faith means you really trust Christ. You don’t just talk about trusting him, you trust him whatever is happening in your life. You trust him when you lose a job, and when you find a job. You trust him at the wedding, and you trust him at the funeral.
Jesus Christ can give you a pure heart, a clean conscience, and a sincere faith. That’s why he died. That’s why he is alive. Receive these gifts from him today, and you will be able to love!
Where do you most feel you need to grow in love? With your family? Co-worker? A difficult person in your life? Which gift will you ask for (and pursue) today?