Read 1 John 3:11-19 in your personal Bible or at the link provided.
Review
1. What command have we been given from the beginning?
2. What does love show about us? What does hate reveal?
3. How are we told to show the truth, and what does this lead to?
Reflect
Earlier in chapter 3, John emphasized how much we’re loved by the Father. Today he calls us to live out that same love toward others. Jesus is our ultimate example. Unlike Cain, who took his brother’s life, Jesus gave up His life for all humanity. Unlike Cain, who asked, “Am I my brother’s keeper,” Jesus said, “I AM my brother’s keeper.” (For more on Cain’s story, see Genesis 4.)
This type of love is a response to the compassion God has for us. It’s shown through sacrifice and action. It’s not just saying, “I’ll die for you.” It says, “I’ll live for you.” It means seeing others’ needs and stepping in as a brother or sister to help meet those needs.
Where does this type of love flow from? It comes from being with God. If we’re struggling to have compassion, that’s all the more reason to spend time in His presence. That’s where we get the fuel to love others like He does. That’s where we learn what it means to put our love in action.
Respond
• How would you say you’re doing in the area of compassion and putting your love in action? Is it an area you want to grow in? How so?
• Do you tend to distance yourself from the needs of others? How does today’s reading challenge you to love people differently?
• What specific needs have come to your attention recently? Is there an action God is calling you to take in response?
Pray through these questions, and write down what God is prompting you to do next. Share with a friend, and take a step to apply it.