On LoveSample

The Virtuous Life

 The key to a successful life is one of virtue. A successful life is not defined by circumstances, net worth, degree of fame, or any recognition we achieve. It is choosing a life of compassion, kindness, gentleness, and patience versus one of money, likes, properties, and awards.

 Love is what binds all these virtues together. However, forgiveness is required to apply love—not just any forgiveness, but the same kind that Jesus has given us. Jesus forgave us all while we were yet sinners. We are called to forgive preemptively. The call to forgive applies even when the other person has not forgiven us. It is what it looks like to behave as children of God, as the chosen people who are holy and dearly loved by God.

 Successful living is when we love and forgive others just as God has done with us. The world may have its concept of a successful life, which can be seen as the opposite of what Paul admonishes. The world elevates superficial gains and surface-level affirmations. Quite frankly, we adopt the world’s ways too often. When we speak of wanting a better life for our children, we speak of material achievements rather than stellar character traits. We have succumbed to believing that we can obtain happiness through material things.

 As God’s chosen people, we are called to a better way: a path of truth and virtue. The virtues of every day come through the hard work of abundant obedience to Christ. It is true life, which in the end, is more thrilling and rewarding than superficial one-off moments. Love binds all the virtues in perfect unity. God, who dearly loves us, desires the best for His children. Living this unity of virtue is a life of true success. Paul wrote to the Colossians: “Love is more important than anything else. It is what ties everything completely together.” Love is the answer because God is Love. He is what brings peace and unity. We are part of the body of Christ and have chosen to live together in peace. Let’s continue loving others as God has commanded. 

Yellow Balloons explores the far-reaching applications and impact of just one of the Servant Leadership tools: the power of perspective to transform people and organizations. The Yellow Balloons Devotionals are a daily reminder of the great opportunities of life, connecting age-old biblical truths with our modern-day lives in a way that is simple, practical, and easy to understand. If you are interested in getting a free copy of the Yellow Balloons book and additional devotional resources, visit https://yellowballoons.net/ .