Striking A Chord!

In this life we can find ourselves easily STRETCHED too thin as we try to cram so many activities into each day. However, there are times when something is important enough to STRETCH ourselves just as much as possible; going beyond our comfort zone, surpassing our supposed abilities, putting forth some extra effort, etc. When it comes to the most important things in life we should be ready to move beyond the ordinary effort that might be otherwise put into other undertakings.

Peter exhorted those he wrote to…
“ABOVE ALL, KEEP LOVING ONE ANOTHER EARNESTLY, since love covers a multitude of sins.” ( 1 Peter 4:8 ESV)

Of all the things Peter wrote to these brethren, this was one thing to be kept in mind “above all.” Love is an important characteristic of our walk with God and in our relationship with one another. It can be no other way. (note 1 John 4:8 & 20-21)

The word Peter used which is translated “earnestly” (ESV) or “fervent” (KJV & NASB) or “deeply” (NIV) has an interesting background. The word is “ektenes” which (according to Vine’s Exp. Dict. Of N.T. Words) literally signifies something “strained” or “stretched out” (“ek” being “out” and “teino” being “to stretch”). It is therefore used metaphorically to refer to an earnestness, fervency, or intenseness in doing something. It is a word used for stretching out to sleep or simply stretching out a part of the body. However, being a musician with a special fondness for stringed instruments I find it interesting that this word (according to some) was also used with reference to the strings of an instrument being STRETCHED tightly so as to be playable in tune.

Love STRETCHED out! Neither my violins, guitars, or dulcimers sound very good when the strings are not properly tightened. As such they would make noise rather than sweet music. The same is true in our relationships when we do not possess a proper degree of love. Sometimes teens will refer to those with whom they are “tight.” Perhaps that could be an expression of our love within the church. It is only with an earnest love for one another that we can create true harmony within the family of God. Jesus loved us enough to literally STRETCH out His arms and die on the cross for our sins. How much we are willing to STRETCH ourselves out for one another will depend on the degree of love we possess. May we continue to strive for an earnestness of love that will promote sweet harmony among us.

Have a great day LIVING LIFE IN TUNE WITH GOD AND OTHERS!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Love