November 5, 2008

Concern for Others

“For I want you to know what a great conflict I have for you and those in Laodicea, and [for] as many as have not seen my face in the flesh, that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, and [attaining] to all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” (Colossians 2:1-3 NKJV)

Here is a great example of love. Paul is tormented that he cannot go to these brethren. He is worried about their faith, and wishes to impart more knowledge to them. He warns them not to be deceived in the verses that follow. He cares deeply for their spiritual wellbeing.

How many people do you care for to that extent? Before you answer, think about this: Paul had never met many of these people. Oh, how wonderful it would be if believers were knit together in love.

For this to happen, selfishness must be put away, and prayer must be engaged. There are no shortcuts to where Paul’s heart was. He prayed constantly for many individuals. He had a passion for others that could only be manifest by the Holy Spirit of God. He was where believers need to be today.

Take the first step by examining your heart. If you don’t care much for others, ask yourself why. How is it that Paul can be so concerned for people he didn’t even know, and you can’t be concerned for people you have known for years?

“If someone says, "I love God," and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen? And this commandment we have from Him: that he who loves God [must] love his brother also.” (1 John 4:20-21 NKJV)

If your heart is cold and callused, do not ignore the implications. “For thus says the LORD to the men of Judah and Jerusalem: ‘Break up your fallow ground, And do not sow among thorns. Circumcise yourselves to the LORD, And take away the foreskins of your hearts, You men of Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem, Lest My fury come forth like fire, And burn so that no one can quench [it], Because of the evil of your doings.’” (Jeremiah 4:3-4 NKJV)

Do you have a concern for others? Pray that God would burden your heart for your brethren in the Lord and those outside of Christ. The distractions of this world are not worthy to be compared to your glory in heaven. Amen.