SCRIPTURE: Galatians 2:1-10
OBSERVATION:
Paul was raised to measure people by their status and religious performance, but God’s free love has transformed him. He now realizes that God does not measure people by these things, but loves all people (Jews and Gentiles, rich and poor). He confirms that this was Jesus’ message with Peter and the others in Jerusalem, and they endorse him. Paul is showing the Galatians that his message is the right one, revealed from God, affirmed by the apostles.
APPLICATION:
How does this message translate today? Religious observances will not make God love you more; He loves and accepts you. All that He asks is that You love others like He has loved You – sacrificially, generously, graciously – especially the weak and needy among us. This is the good news, God is love and those who live in love, live in God. Do I live like this, loving to all regardless of their status or religious performance?
PRAYER:
Lord, I need to grow in this grace, to be loving and gracious to all, especially to those that I struggle with. Change my heart with Your love, that I may love others like You. Amen.