Friday, August 28, 2020
Month Theme: Let Brotherly Love Continue
Topic: Loving the Rulers who Love Us
Scripture Reading: Hebrews 13:1-9
Main Text:
Hebrews 13:6
6 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.
The writer of the book of Hebrews admonished the believers to remember the faith and manner of life of the leaders and teachers who had taught them the word of God (Hebrews 13:1, 7). Those who rule over us ie leaders (guides, rulers) play crucial roles in our well-being. Two of these roles are: 1. Governing us 2. Teaching us.
Paul pointed to the faith and end of conversation of the leaders who taught the Hebrews the word of God. The mention of their faith and end of conversation seems to suggest that some of them might have died through martyrdom. New breeds of leaders often introduce new trends into a movement that are different from the original plan. Whereas the founders of movements are usually selfless, future ones may seek to take advantage of existing opportunities to satisfy their lusts.
We must love our rulers because they first loved us. Their sacrifices should not be overlooked. The apostle Paul reminded Philemon that he owed him his very life and salvation (Philemon 1:17-19). The apostle Paul might have converted Philemon to Christ, hence he owed him everything including his eternal life. Philemon had no choice but to demonstrate love towards the apostle by forgiving and receiving Onesimus. We have all experienced love for which we owe another person love. For brotherly love to continue, it's needful we constantly remind ourselves of the love we have enjoyed from others.
Prayer: Pray for your pastors and/or superiors at work that God will bless and preserve them.
Recommended Reading:
"The Love Revolution" and "The Millennium Pages of Love" by Eastwood Anaba
(Find e-books at www.amazon.com)
www.eastwoodanaba.com