“Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” – 1st John 3:18 (NIV)
Love is a central theme in Scripture, but it is also one of the most misunderstood.
Do we really understand what love is? “I love you” or “Love you” are words repeated by people, often in a casual manner. More is required than just speaking warmly about loving others or singing sweetly about love. Our heavenly Father is our greatest example. His love towards us is not theoretical, but was actively demonstrated through Christ (Romans 5:8).
God calls us to a love that shows up, a love that does something. Godly love is not passive or sentimental. It is active, intentional, and sacrificial. Jesus did not merely talk about love. He healed the sick, fed the hungry, touched the outcast, forgave sinners, and ultimately gave His life. When God’s love fills our hearts, it then flows naturally into our actions. Love, therefore, in the kingdom of God, is always visible!
In a world where words are easy and commitments are light, Christian love stands out when it is lived. Love in action looks like patience when it’s inconvenient, kindness when it’s undeserved, and obedience even when it costs us something (Colossians 3:12-14). But before we can genuinely love others, we must first receive and rest in God’s love for us.
Love in action starts when:
- We allow God to heal our hearts.
- We choose obedience over convenience.
- We see people through God’s eyes.
Brethren, let’s take a moment and prayerfully examine ourselves. Have we truly received God’s love, or are we trying to give what we have not embraced? Are there any attitudes or hurts that may be blocking love from flowing through us? It is only when these questions are answered that we can demonstrate real love to those around us.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, fill my heart with Your love. Help me to love the way You love, not just with my words, but with my life. Open my eyes to opportunities to show Your love in practical ways, in Jesus’ name. Amen
Read: John 13:34-35; 1 John 4:7-8
Bible Reading Guide: Proverbs 4:1-9; Matthew 24:1-31; Job 35; Job 36; Job 37