Love One Another

John 13:34-35—“I give you a new commandment, that you love one another.  Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another.  By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

The words seem simple, but this command can be so hard live out, especially when we interact with others who don’t even try to show love for others.  Let’s face it, it’s hard to be nice to someone who is being mean to us or who is acting against our own best interests.  We must remember, though, that God does not put us in charge of the outcome.  Our responsibility is not to change other people; rather, we are called to be changed ourselves.  When we show love for others, we allow God to use us to effect change in others.  The waiting process can be painful, though.  We might not see results quickly, we might be called to endure confusing circumstances, we might even suffer the loss of friendships.  The key is this—we can’t do any of it without God.  We need Him to fill us with the Holy Spirit so that we are strong enough to keep his commands. 

Today as you pray and meditate on His Word, confess your need for Him and ask Him to fill you up today that you might be His light for someone else.  Pray that He would open your heart to loving those around you, even those who aren’t willing to receive it.  Pray that you would be steadfast and courageous in living His commandment.