Known By How You Love

John‬ ‭13‬:‭34‬-‭35

A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.”

John‬ ‭13‬:‭34‬-‭35‬ ‭KJV‬

Jesus calls us to a life that values others, serves others, and loves others. Not only does He call us to live this way, He modeled it for us. Yet many Christians fail to actually live this way and look no different from the world around them.

The distinguishing mark of a disciple of Christ is love for others. When we love God, we will have His love for those around us. Well it makes sense, doesn’t it? When we love God, when our hearts are tuned to Him and His heart, then we will have His love for the people around us. And we will love just like Jesus said, just as He loves us, we will love one another. And then that love will mark Christian community.

That love will mark the church and be a testimony to a watching world. Yet I fear, I’m guessing you might fear the same thing, that oftentimes that’s not the testimony that we in the church give to the world around us.

Really this command is simple. It’s really easy to understand. But man is it hard to live out. Loving people is hard. They are difficult and messy. But let’s not forget we are too. And despite our own brokenness Jesus still loved us and went to the cross for us. 

When we love people, particularly difficult and messy people, we are showing those around us that the love of Christ is in us. It’s how we set ourselves apart from the world. If you love one another the world will know that you follow Jesus. 

I want to end this devotion by looking at 3 statements that will help you love one another as Jesus loved you. Live in God’s grace. Give up your rights. ( Now I’m not saying that there’s no place to stand up for what you believe is right. But our chief concern shouldn’t be preserving our rights). Serve those around you.

You want to live out these verses, seek ways you can serve the people around you. It doesn’t have to be something huge, often small gestures make big impacts. In a world that is increasingly self-centered, a selfless people will stand out. Will you be that selfless person today?!!!

Father thank You for this day and Your life sustaining Word. Lord pour out Your abundant blessings upon my friend and family today. Lord fill us with Your Spirit and empower us to love each other as You have loved us. Lord we want to be known for our love for each other so others will want to be part of Your loving family. Lord use my friend to be someone’s blessing today. Be a blessing. Love ya

Father we love You. Amen !