Scripture to Read: 1 Peter 3:8
God wants our lives to look starkly different than the world in which we live. If we look like the world, we’re either still lost in our sin or remaining incredibly immature in our walk with Christ (1 Corinthians 2:14 & 1 Corinthians 3:1–3). So, the third characteristic God lays out for us is to be brotherly. God commanded us to love each other as brothers and sisters who are part of His family. God confirms this several times in His Word, but one that sticks out is in Colossians 3:14, Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity. Then the fourth characteristic God tells us we must put into practice is being kindhearted. To be kindhearted means to be tenderhearted toward others. When we are kindhearted, we choose not to be judgmental and harsh. That does not mean that we do not hold each other accountable. Being kindhearted means treating those who have fallen with the same kindness we’d like to receive when someone holds us accountable. God says it like this in Galatians 6:1–2 Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted. 2 Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ. We are in the ministry of restoration and not retribution. We must be willing to come alongside each other and help bear each other's heavy burdens.
Challenge & Application
· As you consider what being brotherly means, how have you shown God’s love to those around you?
· Being kindhearted is being like our Lord. How have you experienced kindheartedness or shown it to others?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!