Practical Love

“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love. By this the love of God was manifested in us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world so that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” 1 John 4:7-11

In human family relationships there are certain responsibilities which each member carries. Dad or mom may be the “bread winner,” but household chores and tasks also must be done. When responsibilities are taken seriously, there is a greater chance for harmonious family relationships.

The “body of Christ” is a heavenly form of the family unit. Each member has different abilities and interests and carries out different responsibilities which are important to the well-being of the complete body. The two most outstanding responsibilities of the Christian are worship and service. How do you and I express love to God? The primary way we express love to God - in addition to our intimate private worship - is by extending our love to one another and expressing that love in basic and practical ways (service).

Do you love the people in your fellowship? If you don’t, John says that you can’t really love God either, and you are in the dark (1 John 2:9-11). It is easy to say, “I love God.” But often it is hard to show that love by serving others - especially when they are unlovely.

Will I allow God’s specific Word to convict me of error and wrong attitudes today? Will I allow Him to express His love through me to others?

Memorize -
“...you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:35