Are You Loving Like Christ?
“This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.”
—John 15:12
Paul doesn’t mince words when he lists the “works of the flesh”:
“Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies…”
—Galatians 5:19-21
Sometimes sin hides behind socially acceptable actions or, worse, our own indifference. We may think we’re doing no harm, but in reality, our failure to love others as Christ loved us can be deeply painful.
Everyday Actions That Hurt Others
We might not associate the following with sin, but reverse the roles and feel the sting:
- Ignoring the needs of a friend
- Failing to reach out during illness or death
- Overreacting in a tense situation
- Leaving someone out of a group gathering
- Using a harsh tone when gentleness would do
These actions, seemingly small, can sow division and cause pain. If we ask ourselves, “How would I feel if this were done to me?”, we begin to see how easily we drift from Christ’s command.
Live by the Spirit, Not the Flesh
Paul points us to a better way:
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control…”
—Galatians 5:22
Today, let’s focus on gentleness, kindness, patience, and self-control. These traits aren’t just ideals—they are the evidence of Christ in us.
A Prayer for Today
Lord, help me see where my actions fall short of Your love. Teach me to reflect gentleness, patience, and kindness in all I do. May I never excuse harm by calling it harmless. Help me to truly love others as You have loved me. Amen.
Two Songs to Reflect On
🎵 Breathe on Me, Breath of God – Northern Baptist Association
🎵 Will the Circle Be Unbroken (Vol. 2) – Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Johnny Cash, Ricky Skaggs
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