Year of the Bible: Part Twelve of TwelveShembull

"Love One Another"—Again Today's scripture reading tells us to "love one another." This is one of over six commands from the author John for us to "love one another." Why is this so important? Because love—real love, God's modeled love—makes all the difference in our lives and the lives of those around us. What is love? "God is love" (1 John 4:16). How is love demonstrated? According to Romans 5:8, God showed His love for us by sending Jesus to die for us while we were still sinners. Therefore, how do we demonstrate love? By putting the needs of others above our own—remember that those who have not yet entered God's family are lost without experiencing the love God demonstrates. What an honor God has given us! We are instruments of His love. Just think, what would your home become if love—God's love—permeated the atmosphere? What would your workplace be like if you filled the offices, hallways, and video calls with God's love? All of this is possible. Each of us may choose to surrender to the love of God through Christ Jesus and become that conduit of love to those our lives touches. Question: What are specific ways that God has recently demonstrated His love to you? Think of three people in your sphere of influence that you can love in the same way today. Prayer: Father, thank you. Thank you that Your powerful love saved me from my sin. Thank you that Your love can save those my life influences. Holy Spirit, grant me Your grace to model the love of Jesus boldly and humbly to my world of influence. Thank You for the transformation my world will receive because of Your great love.