Love Often Requires Discipline

Today’s reading: 1 Peter 4:7-11

It’s good to be typing this devotional at this morning hour. For the past week or so, I’ve skipped these devotionals at least three times  and I’ve put them off until about midnight on the other days.  It’s frightening to realize what a rebellious child of God I’ve been. I’m glad to be back in step with The Truth to start today.

In the light of my recent transgressions, today’s reading reminds me that love is not as easy, or as comfortable, as it seems on first glance — or as it is often made out to be by The World).

The World encourages me to think of  love as a sense of eternal peace and comfort. But that’s not always what it is. 

And that’s why today’s scripture begins with this glorious advice: “therefore be serious and discipline yourselves for the sake of your prayers.” (Verse 7)

I understand more thoroughly today that peace and comfort are just part of love. The part that God provides.

The glory of His part depends upon my willingness to do my part too.  And doing my part is often very tough. Discipline is usually a painful word.

It is very difficult to “maintain a constant love”  (Verse 8) for, say, the neighbors whose loud music kept me awake for several hours last night. Or to “be hospitable without complaining” (Verse 9) toward a tennis opponent who has won our match by making false calls against me.

And it was certainly difficult to find my Bible and this computer this morning to prepare to write this devotional.

But I am glad to do it all anyway. (When I do it. My inconsistency is troubling.) And I know God is glad to give me His peace  — forever.

Thanks be to God for Love. May I always find the discipline to do my part for it.