Truth of love: Follow

by the Rev. Melanie Dees Campbell, Ark Ministries

When we believe the truth that Jesus the Christ, Yeshua Messiah, died for the sins of all mankind and he is resurrected and lives, how are we to honor that? What does it mean to be a believer? James 2:19 states, "For even the demons believe and tremble (fear.)"

We as believers are to be followers of the teachings of the most high God. True heartfelt belief results in following the spiritual laws of love when we walk as disciples of the Messiah. We are called to be disciples, not just believers.

Disciples discipline themselves studying scripture, prayerfully meditating, worship and obey the Lord's teachings. Combining this with a heartfelt desire to love the Lord with all of our being we mature to act upon God's love to others. Treating others as we would want to be treated, the second commandment from the Lord, loving our neighbor as ourselves.

Followers receive the commandments of Yeshua/Jesus not as laws of bondage but rules to bring joy, peace and love to one's soul. This is the freedom of liberty that manifests the Kingdom of God within, giving God all the glory and honor.

Everyone we meet we are to treat as we would want to be treated. No matter what another person's life position is they are created in the image of God, even if they do not know it. They may not have accepted the Messiah yet but they are God's creation. You may be the only example of God's ambassador on earth they may meet. The reason is that Jesus/Yeshua wants us to treat others as we would want to be treated.

Ask yourself, are you treating others as the Messiah would want? Do you judge people by outside appearances? Do you categorize folks by age, race, finances, gender, education? Do you look down on people not intelligent as yourself? The real question is do you want others to see Jesus/Yeshua in you?

Sometimes, this may not be easy because there are difficult people in the world, sometimes in our own families, fellowship community, work environment or neighborhood but this to can be turned to good. By practicing the principles and rules the Lord gives us these people perfect us as saints, honing our faith. The Lord says he can turn all things to good for those that love him.

We can walk in the love of God and bring forth good fruit because of the indwelling presence of the Messiah through the Holy Spirit/Ruach Ha Kodesh as we mature in the love of God, the Father. God's love for us is unconditional and he wants us to become more like him. We can love unconditionally.

You and I have the love of God within us, he planted himself in our hearts. We need to have to desire to have the love of God come forth to others. Walking in his love by the spirit and truth our being followers will be evident to others. They will see who we follow by how we live and love.

Let us be followers that show others the way, the truth and the life, Jesus the Christ, Yeshua Ha'Machiach. Shalom.