Taking a Look at 1 John

“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”- 1 John 3:16-18 New Living Translation

            While we are not expected to literally lay down our lives as in die, for the brethren, we ARE expected to help those in need, by giving of our time and resources. We are to give sacrificially of ourselves and that can be difficult at times. I know there are times when I don’t feel motivated to do much of anything at all. I suppose that would be considered selfish. I have a heart to help, but not the get up and go sometimes. I’ve struggled with that a long time. Progress can be slow. Perhaps it is difficult for John’s readers as well, as he needs to repeat the same topic frequently. I guess that only shines a light on our humanness.

            Our actions reveal our level of love toward others. How generous are we with our money, possessions and time. While love is an emotion or feeling, it is only truly revealed thru our actions. The parable of the Good Samaritan _{(Luke 10:25-37)}shows that unselfish action without need of any repayment is true love in action. That’s living like Christ.

            We are bombarded by worldly concepts and theories all day long. This is why it’s essential to feed our spirit man daily. Feast on the topics Christ found most important. Understand the importance of spending your time knowing the Lord, because if you don’t the things that are expected of you in his name become much more difficult. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing! rlkeller

Resource: The Life Application Study Bible.