by Kevin Rutherford

Peter said, "And above all things have fervent love for one another, for love will cover a multitude of sins (1 Peter 4:8)." This is a not a command to love one another. This is a command to love one another fervently. Surely we do not think God is pleased with the church if we do not have a fervent love for one another.

Love is a Christian virtue and a fruit of the Spirit (2 Peter 1:7; Galatians 5:22). We choose to add love to our lives, and this love will be added to us by the Holy Spirit as we study and apply the principles and commands of love found in the Scriptures.

When we love one another we will have the attitude expressed by Paul in Philippians 2:2-4. Love produces humility and the humble will look out for the best interests of others.

When we love one another fervently our love will be seen in our actions (1 John 3:18). We will help one another in whatever way we can (Galatians 6:1, 2).

Fervent love will guide every aspect of our relationship with fellow Christians (1 Corinthians 13:4-8). And, when this fervent love exists in the church, the world will know that we are truly the disciples of the loving Savior (John 15:9-14).

"And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment (Philippians 1:9).