Paul identifies “love” as “the greatest of these” (1 Corinthians 13:13); however, consider other things that are great as found in God’s Holy Word. The greatest handicap: Fear (Hebrews 13:5; 1 Timothy 1:7). Fear paralyzes, whereas faith empowers. Fear imprisons, but hope liberates. Fear weakens, and love strengthens. The greatest day: Today (2 Corinthians 6:2). Life is short, death is sure, sin is the cause, and Christ is the cure! Our life is as brief as a vapor; therefore, seek Christ today!
The greatest mistake: Giving Up (Philippians 4:13). When Christ is my strength, I can face tomorrow. Because he lives, all fear is gone! The greatest stumbling block: Ego (Galatians 2:20). Paul said, “…not I, but Christ…” Humility is a good thing! (See James 4:10; 2 Chronicles 7:14; 1 Peter 5:5). The greatest comfort: Heaven (John 14:1-6). Heaven is “an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you” (1 Peter 1:3-4). Heaven is a prepared place for a prepared people. Are you prepared?
The greatest need: Forgiveness (John 1:29). If our greatest need had been information, God would have sent us an educator. If our greatest need had been technology, God would have sent us a scientist. If our greatest need had been money, God would have sent us an economist. If our greatest need had been pleasure, God would have sent us an entertainer. However, our greatest need was forgiveness, and so God sent us a Savior. The greatest gift: Jesus (2 Corinthians 9:15). God is the greatest Giver; He gives the gift that is beyond description (John 3:16) – His only begotten Son! The greatest feeling: Salvation (Hebrews 2:3). Salvation is so great because of its price, provision and purity. It gives peace that is beyond comprehension.
The greatest pitfall: Finding Fault (Matthew 7:1-5). Self-incriminating fault finding is forbidden by Jesus with an exaggerated illustration of specks and planks to make His point more understandable and memorable. An example of this principle is when the religious leaders brought the woman caught in adultery to Jesus (John 8:7). The greatest investment: Helping Others (James 1:27). Someone said, “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” A close walk with God demonstrates itself in helping others (James 2:18).
