Tues Devo: Christmas love?

1 John 4:7-8 “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.” (NASB)

Hello,

As we are in full swing of the Christmas season, I can’t help but notice the distraction. Everywhere I look instead of the message of God’s love at this time, I hear claims about the hatred of Christians. I see claims that those who follow Jesus are discriminating, narrow minded, not relevant. While these claims always bother me, this time of year it seems to be especially irritating. But how are we respond? How can we yell louder and better than the others?

We do it by following the example God gave us through Jesus. We act. God showed His love not just by claiming it loudly – but by putting motion behind His words through sending His Son to this earth  - not just to tell us things, but to show us such great love He knew Jesus’ death would be required.

How do we follow this example? We show love – and what better time of year? We need to do this in real and personable ways – not in mass scream to those who can hear it but cannot experience it.

As you show love in this way, when the detracting message reaches the ears of those who you have showed love to they will stop on wonder why they didn’t think that way about you – and prayerfully will come and start asking you questions. It is the direct 1-1 communication that provides the best opportunity to share who Jesus is and His loving offer – free of the distractions of hate placed in the world by the enemy.

Some things to think about:

How can you show God’s love if you never interact with unbelievers? (You can’t…don’t be a hermit, share with those around you!)

How can you show love if you are always focused on yourself? (You can’t…..let God handle your needs, seek out how you can serve Him by loving others)

How can you show God’s love if you never speak to Him or read His Word? (You can’t…..make the time!...you already make time for everything else)

Have a blessed day as you share God’s love!

Will Hill