Keep Displaying Love-It Builds Up - Conclusion of HOW TO BUILD OTHERS UP IN LOVE

Be tender and gentle.   These are priceless facets of the unselfish love we show when we encourage and build up someone.  Jehovah himself is "the Father of tender mercies and the God of all comfort," and he has "tender compassion" for his servants.  (Read 2 Corinthians 1:3-6;  Luke 1:78;p Romans 5:13)  Paul set a fine example in this regard, writing:  "We became gentler in your  midst, as when a nursing mother tenderly cares for her children.  So having tender affection for you we were determined to impart to you, not only the good news of God but also our very selves, because you became to beloved to us."  (1 Thessalonians 2:7, 8)  When we display godlike tenderness, we can e the answer to a distressed woman's prayers.

Do not expect perfection from your brothers.  Keep a balanced view of your spiritual brothers and sisters.  To expect faultless behavior from your brothers is unrealistic and will bring disappointment.  (Ecclesiastes 7:21, 22) Remember, Jehovah is realistic in what he requires of his servants.  If we imitate his example, we will be prepared to put up with the imperfections of others.  (Ephesians 4:2, 32)  Instead of giving them the impression that they are not doing enough, make it a point to commend them for what they are doing.  That can encourage them.  Sincere commendation can build others up in love and help them to find "cause for rejoicing" in their own sacred service.  How much better when we do so rather than express frustrating comparisons with others. -Galatians 6:4.

Everyone of Jehovah's sheep is extremely precious to him and to Jesus, who provided the ransom sacrifice.  (Galatians 2:20)  We love our spiritual brothers and sisters dearly.  And we want to care for them in a tender and loving way.  In order to be a source of refreshment, "let us pursue the things making for peace and the things that build one another up."  (Romans 14:19)  How we will all look forward to the time when, in the coming Paradise, we will never have reason to be discouraged!  There will be no more sickness, wars, inherited death, persecution, domestic strife, and disappointments.  When  the Millennium is past , mankind will have reached perfection.   Those who pass the final test will then be adopted as earthly sons of Jehovah God and have "the glorious freedom of the children of God."  (Romans 8:21)  May we all keep displaying the love that builds up and helping one another to attain that joyful and rewarding goal. 

Next time: Happy Are Those Who Serve "the Happy God"

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