Paul makes another strange statement

“Peace to the brothers there. Love with faith from God, the Father, and the Lord, Jesus Christ.” Eph 6:23 (Simple English Bible)

Peace, a word often used but rarely attained in today’s world. It seems that every day, the media blasts the news of war, bombings, murders and  other violence. Of course, Paul is referring to God’s peace for all mankind — being reconciled to Him through His son.

Paul makes another strange statement in closing his letter to the churches in the great city port of Ephesus. “Love with faith”…? What does that mean? Is he saying that we cannot love one another without faith. Or we can’t have God’s love without faith? He could be saying that we must love, having our faith in God.

Which ever way you want to swing this, one thing is certain:  our love, God’s love, His love for all men, our faith in Him, being faithful to love and loving in complete faith are all wrapped up together. I don’t think anyone can separate love and faith. Our entire spiritual identity is contained in these two attributes. We cannot have faith without appreciating God’s love for us. We must walk in faith, loving our Father and serving Him. I don’t believe that one can exist without the other while remaining true to God’s perfect love.

I also believe there is a direct connection. The more we love, the greater our faith. The more we put our faith in action, the greater love we have for our Father in Heaven.

Spectacular, huh?

Steve