What Does God’s Love Look Like?
Now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known. And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:12, 13
What is love? People everywhere are searching for it. Our culture has redefined and cheapened it to the degree that many do not know what true love is. As a result, people struggle to receive and give love. Only after experiencing deep hurt and emptiness are some even willing to discuss God’s love as an alternative.
What does God’s love look like? It looks like Jesus. God’s love is demonstrated by the life, sacrifice, and gift of Jesus Christ. In 1 Corinthians 13, Paul lists the attributes of love. It is patient and kind, and not easily angered, proud, rude, or self-seeking. Love keeps no record of wrongs. Wow! That’s a high standard! The unconditional love of Jesus is all that and more.
As recipients of God’s love, we rejoice and are thankful. As followers of Christ, we are to extend His love to those in need, especially to those closest to us. We are to be Jesus with skin on – loving others according to that same high standard! We are to express God’s love at home with our family and in our everyday life relationships at school, work or play.
Discipleship is not just knowing what to do; it’s living what you know day to day. Discipleship is love in action! The greatest expression of love is the life of Jesus. He gave of Himself for the benefit of others, loving selflessly and completely. That’s what love looks like. Jesus loved with actions and not just knowledge or words. He is our example and model for how we are to love others. We are able to love because He first loved us!
God, because You loved us, You sent Jesus as the ultimate gift of Your love. You’ve shown me how to love and to be loved. Give me the wisdom and discernment to be able to pass it on. I pray that You would use me to love others by Your grace, that they would see Your love expressed through me. May my love for You shine in such a way that it leads others to see Your love for them. Lead me to g specifically and intentionally to share Your love this day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Dr. Richard Mark Lee, McKinney, TX