Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. Galatians 6:10 (NIV)

Many churches today are known for the great outreach ministries they take part in. Whether it’s feeding the homeless, running soccer camps for neighborhood kids, or going overseas, these activities are vital to the health of the church. However, in the Bible verse we’re looking at today, we’re reminded of the importance of relationships within the church.

While this passage implores us to love all people, we’re told to have a higher priority of doing good to those inside the church over those outside the church! You see, if we don’t love our brothers and sisters in Christ, how will we ever love those outside the church? According to Galatians, relationships inside the church form a foundation for what happens outside the church.

As I work with young people, I often tell them if they want to know how a potential mate might treat them, they should look at the way the person treats his parents and siblings. This is normally a good indicator of how he or she will behave toward a spouse. And as a parent myself, I try to teach my children to love each other because I know this will form the basis for how they love others outside our home.

In the same way, how we treat our brothers and sisters in Christ is foundational for all other relationships. In fact, Scripture likens our love for one another to our love for God. It’s that important!

Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. 1 John 4:20 (NIV)

How are you behaving towards your brothers and sisters in Christ?