Pillars of Faith

Love, it's a word that has many definitions, connotations, both positive and negative, and a myriad of emotions. First of all, love is a verb and a noun. What is love to Christians? The Christian virtue of love is stated thus: Bearing wit one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint; even as Christ forgave you, so you almost must do. But above all these things put on love which is the bond of perfection.” Colos 3:12-13. So, love to a Christian is both a noun and a verb. We have concern for others, and we cherish others. Love and tolerance have often been confused. Tolerance these days means “I'll accept whatever you do without question.” Tolerance should instead mean respecting that all humans are the creation of God, and because of this, they deserve the virtues that include kindness, justice, and love. Christians should remember that we can be tolerant of a person being human as far as they will allow. Part of being Christian is pointing out sin, but that doesn't mean using “fire and brimstone” tactics. We all sin, and none of us can claim to be perfect. All people, believers and non-believers alike can fall down and sin. The difference is Christians are covered by grace.

A big question often hurled at Christians is “Do you believe I'm going to hell become of [insert addiction, belief, or lifestyle here]. The answer to this can help someone try to see Christianity in a new light or succumb to the prevailing stereotype that Christians point fingers and say, “Yes, you are going straight to hell you vile sinner!” Sins are all the same in God's eyes: lying, adultery, pride, etc. All of us have sinner in one way or the other, in a lie, or wayward thought. The point is, God loves all people regardless of what they're struggling with. As servants of God we're to strengthen those who are in pain and lift them up: “I am feeble and severely broken, I groan because of the turmoil in my heart...For I am ready to fall, and my sorrow is continually before me...For you, O Lord, I hope” Psalm 38: 6-15. Because all humans are born with a rebellious nature, the flesh, some struggles will be more difficult in some than in others. Some of these struggles are made more difficult by the environment, some because of social mores and forays, and some due to genetic factors. In my case, fighting against the flesh will always be a struggle while on Earth, but these desires can be managed. First, when you fail, don't despair or discourage your soul. Even if you're not a Christian and you hit some obstacles and stumbling blocks, remember you are loved. It can be hard to know the infinite and immense love and forgiveness of God. Second, find someone who's been through what you're struggling with (an accountability partner) to help you figure out what you need to do to avoid your pitfalls.

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Figure out your triggers and try to get rid of them or minimize them. It's never easy battling with the nature of the flesh. It is a powerful drive and desire, obedience if far more difficult than independence. Humanity has suffered from this dichotomy, obedience versus the self, since the fall of Eden where we have become aware of sin. Alone, we feel we're trying to breathe in a sea of sand, but with God and others it can be overcome. God can give ethereal amounts of strength and love if you ask. For the unbeliever, talking to a Christian about your troubles and struggles is a good step. Jesus Christ gave Himself so we could be forgiven and find peace, serenity, and joy. God loves everyone, and regardless of what some groups say, He does not hate anyone. We are His creation, and He loves us and wants us with Him. He cannot tolerate sin because He's perfect, but He wants all to feel and have salvation. Jesus as a mortal, so He knows the extent of temptation.

So, how does a Christian really show love? The simple answer would be to do as Jesus does. Jesus was very sympathetic to those who knew they were sinners and felt hopeless. “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution... Yet in all these things w are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. Nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is Christ our Lord” Romans 8: 35-39. Jesus was known to hang out with people considered sub-human because of disease or the sins they struggled with. After all, David committed adultery and murder, but was a “man after God's own heart.” David knew he had done wrong, so he repented and told God he needed Him to be in charge of his life. Repentance means acknowledging what you've done is wrong and avoiding that sin. Repentance means acknowledging you're weak in and seeking God's help and guidance. Temptation is not sinful, however, giving into it is. The best way to kill a temptation is to starve it. Put on your armor of God and slay that snarling dragon! You can be covered in the Blood of the Lamb, let it engross you both mentally and physically. Use the Word as your sword. Jesus has already been the victor in the ultimate fight; the fight to be assured your soul can live after death. Jesus has conquered death and He wants you to live. We must all face a physical death, but it's not necessary to suffer a spiritual death as well.