Let's Love!

Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. 1 John 4:7

Sometimes, no words are needed. Sometimes, the best ministry we can provide for our families is cooking them a yummy dinner and giving them our full attention. Sometimes, the best way we can love others is by providing help instead of asking if they need it. Sometimes, the best way to pray for a friend is with them, right there, on the spot. Actions speak louder than words. Jesus knew this all too well. Did he say some pretty amazing things? Absolutely, yes! But for the most part, he loved people. He loved them well. He saw past their sins and failures and forgave them. He loves us in this same powerful way. Regardless of our mess-ups, lack of patience, and sometimes poor attitudes, Jesus loves us. He wants to fill us with his love, not so that we can keep it all to ourselves but so that we can pour it out abundantly.

I used to think that I had to pace myself as an author. I believed if I wrote or shared too much at a time, I wouldn’t have enough left for the next day or week. But God has been teaching me lately that He doesn’t work that way when it comes to writing for His glory or loving others. Quite the opposite. When we love and give of ourselves—our time, talent, and treasure—in abundance, God multiplies our offering. When we come to him with hands open, ready to give, we receive so much more in return. Joy, peace, and hope are ours to behold when we choose to love freely.

Let’s lavish the love Jesus Christ has given us first and foremost upon our families, and to the world. Sometimes, no words are needed, only God’s love.

Dear Jesus,

Make my life an offering. Lord, I want to be used by you. Teach me your ways. Help me to love my family and others with this same powerful love you have demonstrated toward me. Thank you that your love never fails and that your mercies are new every morning. Help me to live from your love and give it away with a cheerful heart. In Jesus' risen name, amen.

Steps of Faith:

• What is something you can do this week to love or bless another? How can you serve your family today?