Scripture Reference:
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.” (John 13:34)
Reflection:
Have you ever snapped at someone, ignored their message, or given them the cold shoulder? Sometimes our words and actions reflect what we’re feeling in the moment. When we’re hurt, we may pull away. When we’re angry, we may look for someone to blame. And when we feel unloved, it can be hard to offer love in return.
Jesus shows us another way.
In Philippians 2:1–11, Paul describes Jesus’ humility and self-giving love. Jesus didn’t put Himself first or seek power over others. He became a servant and gave Himself for us. His example reminds us that love isn’t just a feeling—it shows up in how we listen, speak, forgive, and care for people, even when it’s difficult.
So, how are you treating the people around you? Think about your family, friends, neighbors, classmates, coworkers, and even people you interact with online. Are you making space to understand them? Are your words bringing kindness—or adding to the hurt?
I know I don’t always get it right. Sometimes I feel spiteful, lonely, hurt, or angry, and I let those feelings shape how I treat others. In those moments, I need to turn to God and ask for help. Paul encourages us to move beyond selfish ambition and consider the needs of others. That doesn’t mean our own needs don’t matter; it means we choose humility, compassion, and care.
Jesus loved and served others, even through suffering. We can follow His example in everyday ways: pausing before we respond, checking in on someone, offering an apology, or choosing kindness in a conversation or group chat. The days we’re given are gifts from God. Today, remember to love—and when you don’t know how, ask Jesus to teach you.
“Jesus, teach me to turn hurt into compassion, anger into patience, and every ordinary moment into a chance to love like You.”
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, You are wonderful, faithful, and full of love. You never cease to amaze me. Thank You for the gift of each new day and for my wife, my family, and my friends, who bring so much love and joy into my life.
Please teach me to love others as You love me. Help me be patient when I feel frustrated, gentle when I’m tempted to speak harshly, and compassionate when someone is hurting. When I feel lonely, angry, or misunderstood, remind me to turn to You before I respond. Give me the humility to listen, the courage to apologize, and a forgiving heart when I’ve been hurt.
Help me notice the people who need kindness, encouragement, or simply someone willing to listen. Guide my words and actions at home, with friends, at work, and in every interaction—even the small ones. Let the love of Jesus shape the way I treat others each day.
Thank You for loving me with grace and never giving up on me. Keep teaching me to serve, forgive, and love as Jesus does. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
When Life Feels Heavy, What Is Holding You Back From Trusting Jesus?
Are fear, uncertainty, or discouragement keeping you from fully trusting Jesus? When your heart feels weary and the road ahead seems unclear, you may wonder what to do next. Jesus lovingly invites you to place your worries, burdens, and future into His hands.
In Jesus, you will find:
- Peace instead of fear: He remains near through every uncertain moment.
- Strength in weakness: His grace sustains you when you feel tired and overwhelmed.
- Hope beyond circumstances: Your struggles do not define your worth or separate you from God’s love.
- Courage to keep going: Jesus gives you grace for today and hope for tomorrow.
- A deeper faith: Difficult seasons can draw you closer to God and teach you to depend on Him more completely.
If life has caused you to question God, today is an opportunity to draw nearer to Jesus. Bring Him your fears, surrender your burdens, and trust Him to guide you one step at a time.
Click here to learn how to invite Jesus into your heart and begin your journey of faith with Him.
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Rob Lavallee
Scriptural Seeds Ministries