Little children, let us not love [merely] in theory or in speech
but in deed and in truth (in practice and in sincerity).
1 John 3:18 AMP

This verse always steps on my toes.  Today’s ‘me first’ mentality is encouraged and supported by society.  Yet, John 13:34 (HCSB) instructs us on what Jesus says we are to do:

“I give you a new command: Love one another.
Just as I have loved you, you must also love one another.”

My struggle with selfishness is a daily battle.  It is so easy to profess love.  But getting my actions to match my words is where the rubber meets the road.  Romans 12:9a (HCSB) states “Love must be without hypocrisy.”  OUCH!  Real love is demonstrated by deeds.  It requires a deliberate choice.  That choice doesn’t necessarily have to be monetary.  Encouragement and support cost nothing, except perhaps a little bit of time.  Sincere expressions of affection and labors of love show God’s love DOES dwell within us.

Galatians 5:13 (NLT) says we “have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love.”  We have a choice to make—live in bondage to our selfishness or live in freedom by putting our love into action.  The decision seems to be an easy one but persevering is the real challenge.

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Abba Father, this is a struggle I cannot beat on my on. I truly want Your love to be seen in me by my actions and how I love. Please help me conquer my selfish desires so my expressions of affection will be sincere. In Your mighty name I pray – AMEN, It Is So!