God's Glory Church

“Love… does not seek only its own, does not rush to anger.” — 1 Corinthians 13:4-5

We rushed to a fast food restaurant to have lunch together during my friend Jerry’s short work break. At about the same time, six young people entered the restaurant directly in front of us. Knowing that we didn’t have much time, we internally expressed our displeasure. And those people stood in two groups at both cash registers, trying to be the first to make an order. Then I heard Jerry whisper the words of Christ: “Be merciful.” Oho! Of course, it would have been nice if we were the first to pass, but what a great reminder to think about the needs and wants of others, not just your own.

The Bible teaches that love is long-suffering, merciful, selfless, that it “is not quick to anger” (1 Cor. 13:5). “She often… prefers the well-being, benefit, and pleasure of others to her own,” commentator Matthew Henry wrote about this love. God’s love thinks of others first.

In a world full of angry people, we often have occasion to turn to God for help in being patient and kind to others (v. 4). In the Book of Proverbs 19:11 it is said: “The understanding of a man stops his anger, and his majesty is to pass over iniquity.”

It is precisely such acts of love that bring glory to God, and He can use them to bring the message of His love to unbelievers.

So, with God’s help, let us use every opportunity to show mercy.

In what cases are you prone to despair? How can prayer to God help in this?

God, I need Your help. Many things in this world irritate me, but I want to be filled and overflowing with Your love.

By Ann Sitas