Wednesday, May 11 – 1 Corinthians 13:8
Love never fails; but if there are gifts of prophecy, they will be done away with; if there are tongues, they will cease; if there is knowledge, it will be done away with.
When you reflect on your life, who are some people that have impacted you? For many, it is their mother or someone who has played a motherly role in their life. As you reflect, it may be hard to remember the exact words of advice given, knowledge shared, or even the specific instances they guided you, but we remember consistent love that was found in all the advice, knowledge, and guidance they gave. Love is the memory that sticks with us because it is the piece that never fails. As Paul said, the other gifts have value, but only love leaves a lasting legacy.
As we follow Jesus, it is easy to wonder if we are getting it right. As we try to measure success in our walk with God, we often forget the gift that has everlasting value: love. We make standards of theology or practices before we consider if we are loving well or displaying the love that God has shown us. Many of the most beloved figures in our lives have left a legacy of love. Even more so, love marked everything Jesus did and spoke. When we follow Him, our lives are modeled and made into His likeness and formed by His love even when it is inconvenient and thankless.
- When did a specific act of love impact your life?
- Consider the relationships in your life. Are they marked by sacrificial love? Why or why not? How can you extend love to those around you?
- Pray and ask God to display through you His sacrificial love.
