Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room
September 19, 2022
Read: 1 John 3:16-24
16 This is how we know love: Jesus laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. 17 But if someone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but refuses to help—how can the love of God dwell in a person like that? 18 Little children, let’s not love with words or speech but with action and truth. 19 This is how we will know that we belong to the truth and reassure our hearts in God’s presence. 20 Even if our hearts condemn us, God is greater than our hearts and knows all things. 21 Dear friends, if our hearts don’t condemn us, we have confidence in relationship to God. 22 We receive whatever we ask from him because we keep his commandments and do what pleases him. 23 This is his commandment, that we believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, and love each other as he commanded us. 24 Those who keep his commandments dwell in God and God dwells in them. This is how we know that he dwells in us, because of the Spirit he has given us.
Good morning! Love one another through action and truth!
Actions speak louder than words! It is not enough to talk the talk of Jesus. We must walk the walk of Jesus as well. It is great to sing praise to God and speak of God’s love, but if we do this while standing among those with physical needs we are failing in our mission.
For someone who is hungry, homeless, without shoes/clothing, or covered in the filth of their environment, to speak of love, even the love of God, is meaningless. Think of the examples in the Bible where Jesus healed someone. First he healed, then the person praised God. When Jesus saw a great need, he would stop everything to first take care of that one person.
Yes, sharing the Word of God is important, but we must first meet the basic needs of those who surround us. God abundantly blesses us. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 2 Corinthians 9:8 For each blessing that we share, our blessings are increased beyond measure. From his abundance we have all received one gracious blessing after another. (Hallelujah!) John 1:16 NLT
Gracious God, Thank You for loving us. Thank you for our blessings. Help us to never lose sight of those in need. May we act with grace when we share our abundance. Thank you. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: When God gives me more than I need, I am called to share.
Serve with a grateful heart! Pastor Liz