God richly blesses us in many ways: providence, giftings, anointings, healings, prosperity. But the reason for those blessings is not just for us personally. February is the month we celebrate love, and our Lord exemplifies love in a way far beyond anything we can completely reproduce. Yet we are made in His image, and we can—and must—display His nature in our hearts and deeds.
I’ve stated many times Christian love is not merely an emotion but an action. Emotions affect us, but when a redeemed heart takes action it affects others. This is Paul’s communication to us via his letter to the Corinthians in which he urges we unify jointly with one another.
God is merciful and comforts us, giving us peace surpassing all understanding (Php 4:7). Why does he comfort us? So we may in turn comfort others, demonstrating love in action. If indeed we love God with all our heart, soul, and mind, (Mat 22:37) then Jesus’ second command must be just as vital. You shall love your neighbor as yourself (Mat 22:39b). As Jesus’ favored apostle wrote, If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; (1 Jo 4:20a). We are told to test the spirits (1 Jo 4:1). And we are also told to examine ourselves (1 Co 11:28, Gal 4:3-5). If we peer into our own spirit with the aid of the Holy One, is it filled with God’s love for others? Let us all continue to love and comfort one other as God loves and comforts us.
Lord, help us examine our hearts to be sure they are filled with the love You have given us. Show where we may minister to others as You have commanded, having equipped us for that purpose. Let us always be receptive to Your perfect will in our lives.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.