Cold

Yep, it's cold outside where I live today...really cold. And, for the record, all you folks out there that like cold weather, you can have it. I love you, but bring on the summer time! Anyway, it being so cold outside reminded me of something Jesus said: "because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold" (Matthew 24:12). I realize that this statement is in the midst of one of Jesus' end times discussions. But, don't we see this happening before our very eyes? Aren't we all susceptible to this reality? That unless we keep the fire of our passion for Christ stirred up, we could all have our love grow cold?

Our love can grow cold toward the Lord. Our love can grow cold toward our neighbor. And, according to Jesus (Matthew 22:34-40), isn't that the "center of the mark"?

So, how do we keep the fire stoked and burning? It will sound simplistic and basic, but haven't we tried to complicate things enough in the Christian life?

Here you go:

• Read, study, and obey the bible
• Pray consistently
• Worship daily at work and at play
• Gather with God's people consistently
• Fellowship with God's people regularly
• Love other people with the love of Christ

So, there you go. Do you find that your love is "growing cold"? Maybe it's time to invest some time this new year in building these godly habits into your life. We certainly don't want to end up like the church at Ephesus (Revelation 2:1-7).