“Therefore, be imitators of God, as dearly loved children, and walk in love, as Christ also loved us and gave himself for us, a sacrificial and fragrant offering to God.”
Ephesians 5:1-2 CSB
Do you ever feel overwhelmed with how you are supposed to truly love the people around you? We are called to walk in love but what does this look like in our everyday lives?
Whenever I’m feeling overwhelmed and question how I’m supposed to love those around me, God reminds me that he already showed me the perfect example of love. Jesus showed us what love is by sacrificing himself on the cross for our sins. Jesus showed us his love for us through his actions, which was a sacrificial and fragrant offering to God.
Jesus’ example of love shows me that love is not self-seeking, and that love is shown through our actions. As imitators of God, we are also called to love others through our actions, even if it means sacrificing our own wants and desires to serve the people around us.
In marriage, Jesus’ example of love shows me how I can love my husband by thinking of his needs and desires instead of just my own. Whenever I don’t feel like doing the dishes or the laundry, God reminds me that these acts of service are a way I can show love for my husband. As I do the mundane tasks of cleaning and housekeeping, I actually have more joy since I know my husband will appreciate these acts of service and feel loved.
With friendships, putting our love in action is one of the most powerful ways we can nurture close relationships. It’s easy to say we love others and will pray for them, but when was the last time you actually showed this love in action? When was the last time you showed up for a friend in need without expecting anything in return?
We may always have a busy calendar and a never-ending to-do list but we can show love for the friendships around us by prioritizing time with them and by being there for them. We show love by celebrating the wins and being there for them when they need extra support and encouragement.
In a world that needs more love, remember how Jesus loved us. Trust that he will give you the love and strength to show that same sacrificial love to others in return.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for showing me what love is and how to love others through your son, Jesus Christ. I pray that you fill me with this love and show me how I can share this love with the loved ones around me. Open my eyes and heart to your children that need extra love today. In Jesus’ Name, Amen. Bio
Erin Elise Kiu is passionate about helping women have a transforming relationship with Jesus. After experiencing her own transformation with God, Erin’s mission is to help other women live the fun and holy lives they were created to live. Erin is an author and blogger at Fun & Holy, a blog and community for women to grow together as they become the women God created them to be.
Website: www.funandholy.com