THREE ANGELS BROADCASTING NETWORK DEVOTIONAL
The Warmest Gift of Love.

By Deborah Shaffer November 5th

“Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all sins.”​ Proverbs 10:12

Someone once told me that they thought blankets were the perfect gift, because they were a gift of love and warmth. When a covering is placed around or over someone, it protects them from harsh elements that may cause pain or discomfort. It is an act of peace and love. In the Bible, Peter tells us, “Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins.” 1 Peter 4:8 (New Living Translation). No, a Christian brother or sister’s love does not forgive sin (since only Jesus’ blood forgives sin), but it does cover sins.​

How is this beneficial in our Christian walk? The world will see that we hold no faults against one another. Isn’t it true that anger and hatred only make matters worse? Love, however, breaks down walls and brings reconciliation.​

So how do we practice living this type of love? How do we love someone when we have been hurt… maybe time after time? First of all, do not share offenses with another person with the purpose of tearing the offender down in their eyes. Just because you’ve been hurt, don’t push that feeling onto someone else. Not only does that stir up unrest and hatred in your own soul, it causes an innocent person to take on those feelings—causing them to sin. Share your hurt and feelings with your Heavenly Father, first and foremost, and maybe Christian counseling is in order. But never tell another soul in hatred or revenge. Check your motives.​

Second, pray that the offender’s eyes will be opened, and for repentance to take place. Pray for your own heart, too, making sure there is no sin on your part. (There usually is wrongdoing from both parties involved.)​

And finally, after giving it to the Lord and praying for the offender, treat them with respect and love.