Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions. – (1 John 3:18, NLT)
My children, our love should not be only words and talk. No, our love must be real. We must show our love by the things we do. – (1 John 3:18, ERV)
My little children, don’t just talk about love as an idea or a theory. Make it your true way of life, and live in the pattern of gracious love. – (1 John 3:18, VOICE)
Love is so much more than words. Though words can build up and encourage, the tangible evidence of love in action tends to last far longer than something that is simply spoken. Despite the tremendous value I hold in both spoken and written words, I find myself overwhelmingly assured of the truth of love spoken when everyday actions align. It is in the small and simple faithful gestures done in love, that truth is demonstrated over time. We can say whatever we wish, but if our actions do not align, the words are meaningless. However, when we choose love, again and again, through the things that we say and do, the recipients of our words and deeds cannot help but begin to believe the truth that they are loved. May we reach out and love others with the things that we do, just as God so graciously and generously loves each of us, so that all may know that love is not just an idea, but rather a reality intended for us all.
May the Lord’s great love,
Photo by Dee Jones of Open Door Photography ❤
Lead all that we do;
So that our actions,
Display loving truth.
Though our words matter,
Our deeds speak much more;
For our follow through,
Shows love’s open door.
Let us choose to act,
In word and in deed;
Do all things with love,
So God’s love’s received.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You call us to a life of love – not just with our words, but with everything that we do. Thank You that You have shown us what it is to live a life of love through Your Son. Forgive us for the times that we have chosen to do anything that was less than loving. Teach us to trust You more, so that our words and deeds would be an extension of Your heart and hands to those around us. Show us how to love those around us with our very lives, making Your love tangible to all. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we rely on Your love and grace to love others with our every word and deed. Amen.
© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present
My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. – John 15:12
Revelations In Writing 