For this is the message that you heard from the beginning; that we should love on another. 1 John 3:11

 

If you’ve spent much time reading the bible or attending church, it’s pretty clear we, as God’s children, are to love others. God is love and those who follow Him should express that love to those around us. By doing so, we provide a picture of God’s character by how we live our lives and interact with others.

 

So, what are the characteristics of this love we are to show the world. I think the perfect example is found in 1 Corinthians 13 4-7:

⁴ Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; ⁵ does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; 6 does not rejoice in iniquity; but rejoices in truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

 

I’m sure there are people in your life who can be hard to love because they don’t respect you, treat you bad or have done harm to you or your family. Its those people who truly define our relationship with Jesus Christ. He loved you enough to take your worst upon Himself and nail it to the cross so you can be loved by Him. He went to the cross being mocked and hated, yet still said…”Father forgive them  for they know not what they do.” Luke 23:34

 

The world needs to see the unconditional love Jesus gave to you through your life. Are you going to love others as God instructs? Love defines God’s character. Show His love to a lost and dying world. God bless!