Love is the badge of a believer in this world. Especially in times of testing and persecution, Christians need to love one another and be united in heart.

This love should be fervent. The word fervent pictures an athlete straining to reach the goal. It speaks of eagerness and intensity. Christian love is something we have to work on, just as an athlete works on his skills. It is not a matter of emotional feeling—though that is included—but of dedicated will.

Love does not condone sin; if we love somebody, we will be grieved to see him sin and hurt himself and others. Rather, love covers sin in that it motivates us to keep from spreading it abroad through gossip.

Verses to remember: “A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. All men will know that you are My disciples if you love one another” (John 13:34-35, NIV).

More Scripture: Proverbs 10:12; James 5:20; 1 Corinthians 13; Galatians 5:13.

Action assignment: Write down your thoughts concerning the forgiving nature of Christian love. Talk to the Lord about your becoming a more forgiving person.