The Only Thing That Counts

by Chuck Cleveland

The Apostle Paul wrote in Galatians 5, “The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love,” and I concluded God wanted me to trust Him in all areas of my life and to demonstrate His love to all those with whom He gives me a relationship.

I wondered, however, what would constitute such a demonstration, and so I began to ask people, “When someone was a special friend to you, what exactly did that person do on your behalf?” Almost invariably, those people cited instances when someone came alongside them when they were confronted with a sick child, a dying parent, the loss of a job, a broken relationship, or some other calamity. When asked if that friend offered advice on how to resolve the conflict, most said no.

In other words, the most meaningful acts of friendship consisted of “being there” for them in their times of turmoil. Does it not logically follow, then, that we who claim we want to love others into the Kingdom would seek opportunities to validate our message by being there for non-believers during their struggles?

I think it does, and here is how that worked out with my former work associate Craig (not his real name). Shortly before an annual regional meeting, I sensed I was supposed to share my faith with Craig, but there was no opportunity. Several months later, however, Craig’s world came apart when his wife discovered the affair he was having and confronted him about it.

Craig admitted the extra-marital involvement but sought to minimize the damage by lying about the woman’s identity and location, saying she was an office secretary hundreds of miles away rather than a woman nearby. Unfortunately for him, Craig’s wife called the secretary and learned of his double deceit. Worse yet, almost everyone in the organization knew of Craig’s indiscretions.

Shortly thereafter, I spoke with Craig by telephone, telling him that if he needed a friend with whom to talk, I would listen. With much gratitude, he accepted the offer.

Though hundreds of miles apart, we began an exchange about why he had the affair, how his marriage could be restored, and how he could be forgiven by God. It took a lot of calls and correspondence (as well as him reading the Bible I sent), but Craig eventually became a Christian. Furthermore, primarily through guidance provided by another work associate, he was able to save his marriage.

Expressing God’s healing love to those I know has become a high priority, and here are three things I try to practice: 1. Since everyone has a story, I want to listen well. 2. Since everyone has a desire for love and acceptance, I want to provide them more frequently. 3. Since everyone needs to know of the Father’s offer of forgiveness, I want to be a more effective ambassador of reconciliation.

How about you?

About The Author Chuck Cleveland lives in Newnan, GA and has written for three area magazines, as well as the local newspaper. He has been a Christian for over 50 years.

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