As a former high school teacher, there was always at least one student per class who knew how to stir up trouble. If I didn’t identify this individual quickly, it wasn’t long before I lost control of an entire classroom. Yet, stir up does include synonyms that can be construed as positive. In the passage below, one New Testament author refers to someone who generates, sparks and triggers an atmosphere of love.
And let us consider and give [d]attentive, continuous care to watching over one another, studying how we may stir up (stimulate and incite) to love and helpful deeds and noble activities, Hebrews 10:24.
As soon as someone sets the tone for a positive climate to exist, others are stimulated to follow. Yet, if Christians don’t lead the way consistently, it won’t be long until another person fills this leadership void. The author of Hebrews urges believers to be attentive, careful and watch over one another. Guidance is provided by studying the Bible which is the source to finding out how to love.
And this is the message [the message of [g]promise] which we have heard from Him and now are reporting to you: God is Light, and there is no darkness in Him at all [[h]no, not in any way]. 6 [So] if we say we are partakers together and enjoy fellowship with Him when we live and move and are walking about in darkness, we are [both] speaking falsely and do not live and practice the Truth [which the Gospel presents], 1 John 1:5-6.
While incite is often used in a negative manner, you can instigate a moment for the kingdom of God. In the passage above, light is the key to love. Unfortunately, all too often darkness enters the equation which tends to drag everyone else down. Therefore, if you want to stir up, stimulate and incite the love of Jesus, become partakers in Christian fellowship to inspire others to pass on God’s love.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 