How can we actively demonstrate love in a world of increasing lawlessness? The Chilling Forecast of Matthew 24:12 “And because of the multiplication of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold.” (Matthew 24:12) Lawlessness rises. Hearts chill. Yet the Lord’s command to love stands unchanged. The Unchanging Call to Love • John 13:34-35 – “Love one another… By this all men will know that you are My disciples.” • Romans 12:21 – “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” • 1 John 3:18 – “Let us love not in word and speech, but in action and truth.” Guarding the Heart: Inner Practices • Stay in the Word – Psalm 119:11; let Scripture keep affection for Christ warm. • Pray for a tender conscience; ask the Spirit to expose cynicism before it freezes compassion. • Guard your inputs – Proverbs 4:23; limit media that celebrates rebellion and scoffs at righteousness. • Remember the gospel daily; the cross fuels gratitude, and gratitude fuels love. Extending the Hand: Outward Practices • Meet practical needs nearby—meals, rides, errands. Love wears work gloves (James 1:22). • Speak life-giving words—Ephesians 4:29; in a culture of contempt, choose blessing over biting sarcasm. • Forgive quickly—Colossians 3:13; resentment is the ice that hardens hearts. • Practice hospitality—Romans 12:13; open doors and tables push back the cold. • Give generously—2 Corinthians 9:6-8; lawlessness hoards, love shares. Loving Within the Church • Hebrews 10:24-25 – meet consistently, spur one another to love and good deeds. • Galatians 6:9-10 – do good to everyone, especially the family of faith; persevere when appreciation is scarce. • 1 Peter 4:8 – “Above all, love one another deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” Loving Beyond the Church • Befriend the neglected—orphans, widows, refugees (James 1:27). • Uphold truth in public debates without venom—2 Timothy 2:24-25. • Serve community institutions—schools, shelters, councils—placing light where darkness gathers. Strength for the Long Haul • Abide in Christ—John 15:5; fruit only grows on branches connected to the Vine. • Remember the reward—Matthew 25:21; the Master notices every unseen act of love. • Look to the Lord’s return—Titus 2:13; hope stirs courage when lawlessness surges. |
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