Read 1 John 3:16-19
16 We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us. So we also ought to give up our lives for our brothers and sisters. 17 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?
18 Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions. 19 Our actions will show that we belong to the truth, so we will be confident when we stand before God. (NLT)
Discover
1. Who is our model of real love?
2. What does this type of love involve?
3. What provides the proof of our love?
Respond
When it comes to making a difference in the lives of others, today’s verses lay out a clear pathway. Making a tangible difference doesn’t happen haphazardly. It happens through an investment of selfless, sacrificial love, and this type of love usually takes time. God created you to make a difference in this world – to give of your time, treasure, and talent so that someone else can see the selfless, sacrificial love of Jesus.
As you close out this week, let God speak to you and show you ways to actively serve others in this season. Here’s one particular opportunity we’re excited to offer at Traders Point:
What You Can Do
A few days ago, we mentioned our Christmas impact project that begins this Sunday, November 27. As a church, we’ve committed to provide items for Shepherd Community Center’s Christmas store, which will give parents on the Near Eastside of Indy an opportunity to handpick gifts for their kids. Shepherd is actively committed to long-term relationship with their families and bringing dignity to the parents, and we hope you’ll choose to be a part of it. Select the items you can donate at tpcc.org/Christmas-impact.
How You Can Pray
As you consider donating to this project, pray that God would not only supply the needs for these families, but that He would also show you ways to perhaps be involved in the mission of Shepherd. (Click here for ways you can serve there this Christmas.) Pray also that He would give you ongoing opportunities to build relationships and serve those near you, especially during this Christmas season.