TO LOVE OR NOT TO LOVE? IT IS NOT A QUESTION FOR CHRISTIANS

SCRIPTURE:
“These things I command you, that ye love one another.” 
(John 15:17)

MEDITATION:
Have you struggled with trying to determine 
what Spiritual gift God has given you?
You may not think you could be a preacher, missionary, teacher, 
singer, or serve in any other capacity, but the story isn’t over.
God may be preparing you for something specific to do, on His timetable.

The last thing I wanted to do 
was read, prepare, and lead a class in Bible discussions.
If it was sports or music, I was gung-ho, but don’t throw me into teaching.
Well, guess what?
That’s exactly what He did to me over 35 years ago 
and I’ve been teaching (and loving it) since I first started.
He always helps me prepare 
and gives me all kinds of thoughts while leading the discussions.

In addition, about 4 years ago He made it clear to me 
that He wanted me to prepare and distribute devotionals each week.
As with teaching, He gives me the scriptures 
and information to use (including this one).
To date, the devotionals are being read in 29 states and 28 countries!
How neat it is to be a part of what He is doing 
(and I get to see His devotionals first).

So, what does one do while waiting for His direction?
We obey His commands which include loving one another.
What are some characteristics of a loving person?
Here are just a few: 
concerned; takes action when needed; looks for opportunities to help; 
listens; is trustworthy; will always be there; is not judgmental 
(knows the other person); encourages; knows when a hug or a kind word 
is needed; will make sacrifices to help others.

I’m sure you could add many more to the list 
(in fact, if you get a chance, go to my Blog (utvolwoody.wordpress.com) 
and leave a comment with the additional love characteristics that you 
would add…I would love to see them).

How are we to love? 
We are to love as God loves us.
We are to value each other as God values us. 
We are to accept each other as God accepts us.

Why are we to love?
Because it is obedience to God’s command.
It also identifies us as one who belongs to Him.
Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. (1 John 4:8)
If we do not know God, then we are not one of His.

ACTION:
Are you obeying God’s command to love one another?
What evidence can others see in you?
More importantly, what evidence can God see in you?
Can you name some sacrifices you have made to show love for others?
You may not have discovered your Spiritual gift yet, 
but until you do, you can love others.

Pray,
“Heavenly Father, thank You for Your unconditional love for me. I don’t 
understand it, but I believe it. Thank You for making me aware of Your 
command to love others. I need Your help to be less selfish, so that I will 
have the capacity and sensitivity to love others. Forgive me for not loving 
others as I should; make me aware of how I can love them more frequently 
and with more sincerity. Thank You, Jesus, for confirming Your love for me 
when You voluntarily and obediently sacrificed Yourself for my sins!”