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

 

This past Sunday, our Sunday school teacher brought a lesson on loving others. His encouragement, found in scriptures, provided a clear message that we are to love one another. Hate is the opposite of love and it has no place in the heart of God’s children (1 John 3:15). Pretty tough words, but the truth is, God is love and He expects His children to follow suit when it comes to loving others and forgiving those who sin against you.

 

My little children, let us not love in word or tongue, but in deed and in truth. 1 John 3:18

 

We can provide lip service all day by saying we love others, but the truest measure of love is action. Putting others before ourselves is a good indicator that the love of Christ is in your heart (Philippians 2:3-4). Another element of love is forgiveness. It doesn’t take too long to brush with other humans before someone offends or hurts you. Your response to their negative behavior shows the depth of your love. If revenge or blocking them from your life is the response you choose, then you should really take a second look at your heart.

 

Loving others can be risky as you put yourself out there, but the rewards for remaining faithful and steadfast in the Lord has much greater rewards than what you receive (or don’t) from others. Start your day off with the mindset that no matter what happens, no matter how you are treated by others, love will prevail. Blessings!