13 May 2023 - For Love’s Sake

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Bible in a Year:
2 Kings 17–18, John 3:19–36

Be devoted to one another in love. Honour one another above yourselves. - Romans 12:10 New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures (Study Edition)

Running a marathon is about pushing yourself, physically and mentally. For one high school runner, however, competing in a cross-country race is all about pushing someone else. In every practice and race, fourteen-year-old Susan Bergeman pushes her older brother, Jeffrey, in his wheelchair. When Jeffrey was twenty-two months old, he went into cardiac arrest—leaving him with severe brain damage and cerebral palsy. Today, Susan sacrifices personal running goals so Jeffrey might compete with her. What love and sacrifice!

The apostle Paul had love and sacrifice in mind when he encouraged his readers to be “devoted to one another” (Romans 12:10). He knew that the believers in Rome were struggling with jealousy, anger and sharp disagreements (v. 18). So, he encouraged them to let divine love rule their hearts. This kind of love, rooted in Christ’s love, would fight for the highest possible good of others. It would be sincere, and it would lead to generous sharing (v. 13). Those who love this way are eager to consider others more worthy of honour than themselves (v. 16).

As believers in Jesus, we’re running a race of love while helping others finish the race too. Though it can be difficult, it brings honour to Jesus. So, for love’s sake, let’s rely on Him to empower us to love and serve others.

Reflect & Pray:
What does it mean for you to love others as God loves them? How does Jesus reveal that love is more than emotion?

God of love, for love’s sake and Your glory, help me to consider others before I consider myself.

Author: dwang123@donebyngle.com

 

[BrotherWinslow]

Bible in a Year:
2 Kings 17–18, John 3:19–36

Be devoted to one another in love. Honour one another above yourselves. - Romans 12:10 New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures (Study Edition)

Running a marathon is about pushing yourself, physically and mentally. For one high school runner, however, competing in a cross-country race is all about pushing someone else. In every practice and race, fourteen-year-old Susan Bergeman pushes her older brother, Jeffrey, in his wheelchair. When Jeffrey was twenty-two months old, he went into cardiac arrest—leaving him with severe brain damage and cerebral palsy. Today, Susan sacrifices personal running goals so Jeffrey might compete with her. What love and sacrifice!

The apostle Paul had love and sacrifice in mind when he encouraged his readers to be “devoted to one another” (Romans 12:10). He knew that the believers in Rome were struggling with jealousy, anger and sharp disagreements (v. 18). So, he encouraged them to let divine love rule their hearts. This kind of love, rooted in Christ’s love, would fight for the highest possible good of others. It would be sincere, and it would lead to generous sharing (v. 13). Those who love this way are eager to consider others more worthy of honour than themselves (v. 16).

As believers in Jesus, we’re running a race of love while helping others finish the race too. Though it can be difficult, it brings honour to Jesus. So, for love’s sake, let’s rely on Him to empower us to love and serve others.

Reflect & Pray:
What does it mean for you to love others as God loves them? How does Jesus reveal that love is more than emotion?

God of love, for love’s sake and Your glory, help me to consider others before I consider myself.

Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind and soul. Casting all your care upon Him because He careth for you. Full of the Holy Spirit of God cast out devils in Jesus name and heal the sick and the infirm just as Jesus did wherever He went. We must follow and obey His word. Jesus is the best example of holy and pure life to live on earth.