Love Changes Everything

In modern society, the word "love" us used in a multitude of ways, some of which are incorrect or inappropriate. So what is love? How do we actually define it and use it correctly? The Bible defines love as a strong affection, desire, or devotion. We will focus on how love is addressed in the Bible since it is the wisdom of God, which shows us how to take His written knowledge and practically apply it to our lives in various circumstances.

Let's start by remembering that God is love. The Christmas season is our celebration of God coming into the world in human form (100% God and 100% man) as Jesus, also known to us as Emmanuel, which means "God with us." What did Jesus have to say about love?

In the Gospels, Jesus was asked by a Pharisee what is the greatest command. He responded by saying to "love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind" and to "Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets hand on these two commands" (Matthew 22:37-40, NIV). Jesus wanted us to know that if we fulfill these two commands that have a foundation of love, we will naturally keep all the others. Later in the Gospels, before Jesus ascended to heaven, he said that he was giving a new command which it to love one another as he has loved us and by this all will know that we are his disciples (John 13:34-45). Love was not new but loving as He loved was. This kind of love is noticed by everyone (believers and unbelievers) and it is evident that it is empowered by a supernatural source.

Once we are saved by grace (unmerited favor) through faith and we go deeper into relationship with God, we can receive revelation of His love (agape- unconditional). We then understand that we live in a relationship of love, acceptance, and victory with Him; we don't have to strive to earn these things from Him. This revelation is what propels us to effectively and genuinely love others.

So often during the Christmas season we focus on giving material gifts that Jesus tells us will pass away with the world. We as believers should be capitalizing on the opportunity to share the gift of Christlike love. If we do this then others will take note and unbelievers may be swayed, not by our words, but by our actions. Our character, integrity, and actions all fueled by love, speak much louder and are more persuasive. Maybe then we will witness others accept the most important gift anyone can receive, Jesus Christ and the salvation he offers. Along with Christ they receive the Holy Spirit, the love and acceptance of God the Father, and eternity with Him. Wow, those are gifts! Even if people don't realize it yet, these are the most important gifts that one can receive. Our revelation of the blessing and opportunity to live in such a way that helps others move from death to life is proof that love changes everything.

Is there anything you need to surrender to the Lord or take on in obedience so you can live a life that represents Christlike love?