Read John 15:12-13
Discover
1. Who does Jesus establish as the ultimate model of love?
2. What is the ultimate act of love?
3. When we show true love to each other, what effects does it have? (See John 13:35 for one example.)
Respond
When it comes to relationships, our greatest example of love is Jesus. The core foundation of the gospel is about God building a friendship with us. He longs for relationship, and He “demonstrates His own love for us in this: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). That’s the same level of sacrifice and love He calls us to show each other. It may not mean physically dying for others, but it could mean sacrificing in another way. Putting someone’s needs before our own, going out of our way to lend a hand or speak a word of encouragement.
Is that a type of love that comes easily to you, or is it difficult to sacrifice your desires for the sake of others? Take some time now to sit in silence with God. Ask Him to show you where you might need to better reflect this type of love. Pray through your relationships, and follow through on an action step today to express the same sacrificial love Jesus has shown you.