Vertical Love
You may have noticed an increase across this nation where people argue for “love without boundaries”. This mantra is often claimed when there are friends, neighbors, coworkers, and especially family who have crossed into an opposing doctrine, and we fear losing our horizontal relationship with them. This is amazingly interesting based on the evidence that Jesus clearly states that religious-minded people should love God above all other things (Matthew 22:37, NKJV). He goes on to state, “And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself’ (Matthew 22:38). Notice, Jesus does not state our horizontal relationships come before our love of the Father, but after. This is the key resolution for those seeking salvation (1 John 5:2-5). Those desiring the New Jerusalem may only enter by way of establishing godly obedience. This vertical love construct is the key to pleasing God. It does not negate the desire, will, or usage of loving our neighbor as ourselves. It does not limit the significance of the relationship we hold with them. Rather, it simply establishes what is true and correct for the will of Jesus (John 8:29).
Therefore, Jesus is our example in all things correct (Colossians 3:17). His reasoning is pure (Matthew 21:24). His motivations were justified (John 9:4). Although His brethren and enemies both falsely accused Him, His love for the Father remained objectively submissive to the end (John 4:34). Should it be similarly apparent in our choices also? Our love for God and others should not be solely based on emotions (Proverbs 25:28). Preferably, we choose the road less traveled in choosing others over ourselves (Proverbs 25:21-22). In doing so, God provides our every need and works on the hearts of those we love who are outside of Christ urging them to obedience through a fervent understanding of what pleases God, not man (Colossians 4:5). Yes, we are to display a constant love for others, it should nullify or usurp the vertical (Romans 8:7). We may find it difficult to accomplish most times, but never forget the choice others made when facing similar trials (Acts 21:13). Remember, we do not hold the power to save, only the Father. What He says goes, not what we feel (2 Timothy 4:3). Please give some thought,
Archie R. Green
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