A couple of months ago, we did a project on Sunday nights where our two groups used 1 Corinthians 13 to create statements for a "love pledge," describing how we ought to love one another as Christians. I consolidated these statements with the pledge I wrote to come up with this, First Baptist's Love Pleadge for 2012:
The Love Pledge
“Love is patient…”
I will keep in mind that you will not change overnight… and neither will I.
I will respect and love you through all things, practicing the unconditional love of Jesus.
“Love is kind…”
I will look for needs you have that I can meet.
I will show concern for you and help you when you need me.
“It does not envy…”
I will take joy in what God gives you, and accept what God gives me with joy.
I will show pride in your accomplishments.
“It does not boast…”
I will humble myself and not try to place myself above you with my words.
I will remember that all I have comes from God and wait for Him to exalt me.
“It is not proud…”
I will seek a broken spirit and lift you up.
I will have a servant’s heart: I am your servant because I am God’s servant.
“It is not rude…”
I will be gentle in my words and actions.
I will ask before I take and listen to your cares and concerns.
“It is not self-seeking…”
I will put your needs before mine.
I will consider my way subordinate to God’s way and your way.
“It is not easily angered…”
Nothing will provoke me to defend my pride.
I will be compassionate and quick to forgive in difficult situations.
“It keeps no record of wrongs…”
I will have a short memory, forgiving without malice or bitterness.
I will not allow myself to relive or recall past mistakes and hurts.
“Love does not delight in evil…”
I will encourage you to do good deeds.
I will not encourage your destructive behavior or find humor in cruel words or actions.
“...but rejoices in the truth…”
I will find joy as we obey God’s Word.
I will celebrate your faithfulness in following God’s will as we walk the narrow path together.
“It always protects…”
I will defend you like family, sheltering you and standing in the gap on your behalf.
I will shield you from danger, even at the expense of my own reputation or standing.
“...always trusts…”
I will love you by deeming you worthy of my confidence.
I will show my confidence in you by being vulnerable, sharing my struggles, hurts and joys.
“...always hopes…”
I will expect the best from you.
I will never lose faith in you.
“...always perseveres…”
My love for you will be steadfast.
I will run the race with you and never give up on you.
Love never fails!
First Baptist Church is a loving community of believers in Jesus Christ. Our history goes back for about a century of serving Jesus in our community. We have exciting ministries for people of all ages, including youth and children. You can keep up with us here for sermons, podcasts, blogs, and events.
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