Wednesday, January 23rd, 2019

Nowadays, it seems more popular to close ourselves off from those who think and act differently than us. The more time we spend watching the news or scrolling through social media, the more likely we are to feel anger or resentment towards the people who, as the media portrays it, are standing directly in the way of us getting what we want. But is life really about getting what we want all the time? And is life only about fighting for the future we personally think is best for everyone? If we read our Bibles, the answer is certainly not. Jesus told us what life is about and not once did he call us to sacrifice brotherly and sisterly love for some kind of personal gain. In 1 John, it says, “We love because he first loved us. If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen. And this commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother.” The more we choose to prioritize our wants, whether they be for perceived public good or personal gain, over love for our brothers and sisters, the more the devil wins. Today, set aside your anger and resentment towards the people you perceive as standing in your way and allow Jesus to work in your heart for good.

“We love because he first loved us. If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen. And this commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother.” – 1 John 4:19-21 ESV