Isaiah 32:17 And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever.

1 Thessalonians 2:8 So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.

Romans 5:1,2,5 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

If the abiding love of God does not touch the lives of those around you, what are you to think?

Rather than judge yourselves too harshly, let us look at the process and see if we understand the effectiveness of the gospel.

First we are justified by faith.

Second being justified we have peace with God.

Third being at peace with God we have a right standing before God, righteousness.

Fourth we have access to God.

Fifth we have hope.

Sixth we are not ashamed.

Seventh, because we are not ashamed, we reflect the love of God.

None of this happens instantly. Even the first step, justified by faith takes time to soak in and believe it is true. It isn’t that we don’t believe in God so much as we don’t believe in ourselves.

The biggest hindrance to effective affection is self-doubt. “How can I?”

Psalm 19:9-11 The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.

This takes time and practice.