Real LifeSample

When you think of a person in your life that you have a high amount of respect for, what kinds of traits come to mind? Is that person trustworthy in a way that makes you feel safe to tell them some really personal details? Do they make you feel like the only person in the world when you have a conversation? Is it someone who makes you laugh, or remembers the details of your life, or shows up to support you without hesitation? Whatever it is about them, all of those traits added together tend to make up the reputation of a person. Those traits become what they’re known for. They make them the kind of person that others believe them to be.

It’s important to consider what traits we put on display as believers. What do we want to be known for as followers of Jesus? More than that, what are we called to be known for? Just as Scripture states, one of the best things that we can be known for as believers is our love. Not just a general kind of love, but a love that reflects the love that Jesus has for all. A love that is truly unconditional. Does this mean we agree with everyone no matter what? No! But it does mean we have to love them even when it’s difficult, even when we don’t feel like it, even when it’s the last thing we want to do.

Today, spend some time in prayer, asking God to help you love people with a love that can only come from Jesus Christ.