"Conclusion of CLOTHE YOURSELVES IN LOVE

Since all humans are imperfect, at times someone in the congregation may say or do something that upsets you.  (Romans 3:23) The disciple James realistically  wrote: "We all stumble many times. If anyone does not stumble in word, this one is a perfect man."  (James 3:2) How will you react if someone offends you? A Bible proverb says:  "The insight of a man certainly slows down his anger, and it is beauty on his part to pass over transgression." (Proverbs 19:11)  To have insight means to see beneath the surface of a situation, to grasp underlying factors that cause a person to talk or act in a certain  way.  Most of us use much insight in excusing our own mistakes.  Why not also use it to understand and cover the imperfection of others? -Matthew 7:1-5; Colossians 3:13.

Never forget that we must forgive others if we ourselves are to receive Jehovah's  forgiveness. (Matthew  6:9, 12, 14, 15) If we are practicing the truth, we will treat others in a loving way.  (1 John !:6, 7; 3:14-16; 4:20, 21) Therefore, if you encounter a problem with an individual in the congregation, fight against harboring resentment.  If you are clothed with love, you will strive to resolve the problem, and you will not hesitate to apologize if you have caused offense. -Matthew 5:23, 24; 18:15-17.

Our spiritual clothing should include other qualities closely related to love.  Paul wrote: "Clothe yourselves with the tender affection of compassion, kindness, lowliness of mind, mildness and long-suffering. These traits, encompassed by love, are part of the godly "new personality."  (Colossians 3:10, 12) Will you make  the effort to clothe yourself in this way?  Especially if you clothe yourself with brotherly love will you bear an identifying mark of Jesus'  disciples for he said: "By this all will know that you  are my disciples, if you have love among yourselves." - John 13:35.

Next time: A PLACE OF SECURITY

The book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life,1995