“Love does not ask to have an easy life of it: self-love makes that her aim. Love denies herself, sacrifices herself, that she may win victories for God, and hers shall be no tinsel crown.” Spurgeon

Not Seeking Your Own

No one should seek their own good, but the good of others.
1 Corinthians 10:24

In 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, Paul states the amazing characteristics of love. “Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”

What the power of love can do in the lives of individuals cannot be compared to any other power in this world. The reason for this is the selflessness of love.

The only Man who was the true expression of selfless love was Jesus. He did not choose to love us because of our goodness but while we were still sinners, took upon Himself all our sins and died for us. (Romans 5:8) He never sought to do His own will but obediently followed His Father. It is because Jesus loves us so dearly that He gave Himself for us.

On the other hand, Satan is described as a murderer and the father of lies (John 8:44). He is also given the title of ‘accuser of the brethren’ who accuses Christians before God day and night. (Rev 12:10) His nature of envy, pride, impatience, selfishness and resentment can creep into the hearts of even the best of us if we leave it unchecked for too long.

Let us remind ourselves of this Godly requirement and “Let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love.” 1 John 4:7-8,

Today we must acknowledge the new commandment that God has given us, to love one another, just as He has loved us. Once we walk in obedience to this command, all people will know that we are truly God’s disciples. (John 13:34-35)

Dear Lord,
I come to You and I thank You that You are a God of mercy and love, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness to me. Let me love You with all my heart, with all my soul, and with my entire mind so that I will have Your heart of love towards my neighbours. Amen.

God bless you.
Your obedient servants in Christ,
Theo & Manju