I love the idea of backpacking; getting out in the fresh air, enjoying God’s creation, eating granola on some remote trail: sounds wonderful. But the truth of the matter is that I NEVER go backpacking. So is it true to say I love something that I never take time or make time to do? Probably not.
I love the idea of water-skiing; my middle-aged chubbiness ziging and zaging behind the roar of some fast boat on a glassy body of water- Mmmm. But the truth of the matter is that I NEVER go waterskiing. So is it true to say I love something that I never take time or make time to do? I don’t think so.
Fact is, there are lots of things that people say they “love” that they never actually take time of make time to do. And that my friends is why the Apostle John wrote this “Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions” (1 John 3:18)
Most Christians love the idea of “loving” the other believers in their life. Relationships of commitment, kindness, forgiveness and patience are highly admired by those who warm the pews. But I have found in my life that most of us are easily offended and quick to run from a relationship the moment it requires work. We “say” we love the brethren but the truth is that most just love the idea of loving fellow believers and the moment “push comes to shove”, and a person finds themselves emotionally pushed or shoved, the vast majority of folks will cut and run.
Yes, we love the thought of dwelling together in unity, sharing a coke and a smile, but the fact of the matter is that loving one another requires the deliberate decision to communicate, serve, forgive and seek forgiveness. Loving each other means saying were sorry, admitting when we are wrong and pushing through the awkwardness that sometimes arises among brothers and sisters. We can say that we love the people around us, but if we never take time or make time to do loving things- do we really love at all? “Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions” Don’t tell me you love backpacking and water-skiing if all you do is sit on the couch.
2 comments:
What a wonderful devotion. It reminds me of something my sister always says... "dont talk about it, BE ABOUT IT". haha...very true.
We are action people, putting into practical action not just our love for people but the love for God and obedience to his word and like nike always say's, 'Just Do It' Thanks for the devo once again i like listening to them before my day begins and they're great!
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