"Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action."
1 John 3:18 (NRSV)
Prodigal Thoughts: If you just look at this one verse, you might think that he is addressing young people, but that is not the case. Earlier in his writing of this letter to the church, he is talking about being children of God. He is reminding us that it is easy and comfortable to say that you love someone, but what are we doing to follow that up with action? We should desire to be people of action and not just empty words. Let’s say it with our actions. Who are we supposed to love then? All people. Those who believe differently that you. Different skin tones, different lifestyles, even those that are your political opposite. But John throws in a caveat to our love in action. We must love truthfully. We need to do all we can to see the value in someone else that God sees. Consider this… Honestly imagine someone that would be your complete opposite, all of the characteristics, beliefs, views, and core of their being. Now, love that person in truth and action. Do you find that difficult? Do you find yourself full of frustration or full of compassion towards the "opposite?" That can be pretty telling of where your heart is. The great thing is that, if we will allow it, God can change our hearts towards others. Everyone deserves to be loved, no matter what they have done or how different they are from you.
Prayer for today: I pray that we would be overwhelmed with our relationship with God to the point where love is more important than our preferences. That we would not allow anything to get in the way of showing others the love of God. I pray that we would all remember where God found us. He loved us enough to have hope for us and to reach out to save us from ourselves. May we be the catalyst of love for others.
If you need prayer, please reply and I will pray for you. If you would like to talk about this verse or have questions, I’m always open for your feedback.
God’s grace on you…
Prodigal Thinker 