Love RemixSample

Which People Do We Have to Love? Like, Everyone?

So, you’ve learned that God’s love is something brand-new and amazing that broke into the world through Jesus. It’s a selfless love that cares more about others’ needs than even its own needs.

But what are you supposed to do with that love as it relates to others? Are you supposed to love people who annoy you? Some people, if we’re honest, are just harder to love than others!

But God didn’t just shout His love for us from heaven. He also spoke His love up close through Jesus. His love is with us, encouraging us to do what’s right, through the Holy Spirit’s comforting closeness to us.

Watch this video for more on how to love others up close, like God does.

Wow, that “put your name where it says love” in 1 Corinthians 13 is a tough exercise! So, are you patient and kind? Do you ever envy or boast? Are you proud, self-seeking, or easily angered? Do you keep a record of wrongs? Do you think some sinful things are kind of fun or good—or do you rejoice with the truth? Do you always protect, trust, hope, and persevere?

It’s a tall order. You can’t do it without God’s help. And God will help you to keep trying when you mess up. Where do you start? You can start up close!

Ask yourself: Who’s someone up close, in my everyday life, that I have a hard time showing God’s love to? Who do I see often that I’m not always patient or kind to—even if it’s only on the inside? How can I get to know them better, understand them better, think better of them, and show God’s love to them better?

Challenge yourself: Talk to a trusted adult or friend about your answers to the “Ask yourself” questions above. See if they have any advice for you on how you can love that person (or people) with God’s agape love.

Pray: God, thank You for continuing to teach me what love is. Thank You for loving me up close. Help me to love others up close, too. In Jesus’ name, amen.