Reading: Yesterday, Peter challenged us to go a little bit deeper in our love for one another. Today, he is sharing some of the reasons why we have trouble with relationships. We need to get rid of all the things that separate us from a good relationship with each other. We must stop hurting relationships with our sin and build on our relationships with love.

Peter gives us a good list of relationship-breakers. When you lie, it hurts your trust with people. When you say you’re going to do something and you don’t, that also hurts your relationships. When you want what someone else has, you tend to focus on the “stuff” instead of truly loving that person. And of course, when you spread rumors, gossip, and curse someone, you aren’t building up your relationships either. Malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander are opposite of the way Jesus conducted his ministry. 

As 1 John 2:6 says, “Whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.” Jesus knew how to deepen relationships and did it every day. He did it with humble service (John 13:1-5), righteousness (I John 3:7), purity (I John 3:3), love (Ephesians 5:1-2), forgiveness (Colossians 3:13), compassion (Ephesians 4:32), humility (Philippians 2:5-8), kindness (Luke 6:35), and generous giving (2 Corinthians 8:1-9).

So, as Peter concludes this thought on who we are and how we need to live, crave that “pure spiritual milk” Peter talks about so that you can be molded more into the image of Jesus. As Hebrews 3:1 says, “Therefore, holy brothers, partners in a heavenly calling, keep your focus on Jesus...” Ask God to show you how to live a life that builds up your brothers on your team, in your family, and in your community. Surround yourself with Godly things. Rid yourself of things that have no benefit to building relationships, but fix your eyes on Jesus and his model of character “so that by it you may grow up in your salvation” as you deepen your love for him and others. It’s the best way to live!

Reflection: Why is it so hard to love others, for you specifically?

Prayer Prompt: God, you are the author of good relationships. Show me how to live and how to love others in every day life. Mold me more into the image of Jesus. He walked in love every day. Can you teach me how to live like that? Help me rid myself of all the things that hurt relationships with others. I trust that it is the best way to live – to live in love of you and my brothers and sisters.