Loving Our NeighborsSample

Loving Our Global Neighbor

Being a good neighbor isn’t limited to our neighborhood, zip code, or street. In fact, being a good neighbor spans across the globe. 

So when we see hurt, tragedy, and trauma in a different country, we should extend the same level of care and compassion as if it were happening in our own community.

In a list of various laws in the Old Testament, we’re told:

“The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the LORD your God.” Leviticus 19:34 NIV

In times of heartache and trial, it can be tempting to respond how the world responds. It’s easy to post something on social media and move on instead of actively seeking out opportunities to serve. 

It’s also tempting to divide the world into “us” and “them.” But this line of thinking can quickly turn into anger and bitterness, and God’s Word tells us that we are to lead the way with kindness. 

As followers of Jesus, we have the opportunity to set the tone of our community’s response to our global neighbors. So instead of focusing on how we’re different or what divides us, let’s remember that we’re all called the Body of Christ, and if one part hurts, we all hurt. 

In the New Testament, Jesus tells a parable to explain how our actions toward others impact His heart.

“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’” Matthew 25:40 NIV

Like we talked about on day one, loving our neighbors is a key part of how we love God. Sometimes it’s tempting to complete a Bible Plan like this and look for ways we can save the world, but that’s not our responsibility. 

Only Jesus can take what’s broken and restore it to wholeness. But He does call us to love others and serve others, knowing that when we do, we get to know God better. 

So the biggest change from loving our neighbors might not be in them or in our communities—it might be in us as we say yes to more of God’s work in ourselves and in our cities. 

But it’s also not limited to our own communities. Just as we care about the well-being, families, education, justice, and community empowerment for those around us, we also care about these areas for our neighbors across the globe. 

So as you wrap up this Bible Plan, consider ways in which you can play a more active role in loving your local and global neighbors. How might doing so make your faith come alive? 

You don’t have to do everything, but ask God to reveal one specific something you can activate on this week. When you do, you might experience a new kind of joy and a new kind of connection with God. 

Pray: God, I want my actions to reflect everything I know and believe about You. I know that this starts by loving well. Please help me see my local and global neighbors the way that You do—as Your children. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Challenge: Think about ways you can more regularly serve and love your local and global neighbors. Then, go do it! 

Learn more about loving your local and global neighbors in five key areas through more Bible Plans like this one.