“If someone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister in need but shows no compassion—how can God’s love be in that person? Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions.” ‭‭1 John‬ ‭3:17-18

I used to think love was a feeling. One day the Lord gently corrected me, and said:

No, love is a decision.

Today’s verse is a great illustration of that point. We can say we love others, but do our actions prove otherwise? Our nation is being battered right now by hurricanes, fires, mudslides and earthquakes. As horrible as these situations are, I have been so impressed with the way people pull together in times of disaster. Total strangers are coming to the aid of others. For a brief moment people lay aside their prejudice and selfishness to serve one another as Christ intended.

When life gets back to normal, remember these times. Remember how good it felt to “BE” the hands and feet of Jesus to others. Find a way EVERYDAY to be a blessing.

Loving well doesn’t always mean providing financial support. Sometimes it means cooking a hot meal for someone or visiting them in the hospital. Sometimes it means cleaning someone’s house when they are unable to do so themselves. Sometimes it means being a shoulder to cry on when someone is grieving. Maybe it means babysitting for a young couple who can’t afford a sitter, so they can have a date night. Maybe it means going next door to that neighbor you’ve never met and becoming a friend. The opportunities are endless.

PRAY: Father, thank You for loving me … even when I am unlovable. Help me to show that same love to others. Lord, remind me each day to look for opportunities to be a blessing to others, so they can see YOU through me. When I need it, remind me that actions speak louder than words. Help me to see others as You see them and to love them as You love them.  

📝 Please share your creative ideas in the comments for putting love in action.