The Power of Love Over Politics
OPENING PRAYER:
Dear God, as we study Your Word today, help us to understand the power of love over politics. Teach us to love others as You have loved us. Amen.
"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
John 13:34-35 (NIV)
REFLECT:
In this passage, Jesus is giving His disciples a new commandment. He tells them to love one another as He has loved them, and that this love will be the defining mark of His disciples. This command is both simple and profound. He sets the standard for this love by His own example, telling His disciples to love as He has loved them. This is a sacrificial, unconditional love that goes beyond mere feelings or words. It is a love that is demonstrated through actions.
In the context of the message, this passage challenges us to prioritize love over politics. Our love for others should be the defining mark of our identity as Christ's followers, not our political affiliations. This means loving others even when we disagree with them politically. It means showing kindness, respect, and understanding, even in the midst of heated political debates.
For new believers, this might mean starting to understand the importance of love in the Christian life. For mature Christians, it could be a call to deeper reflection on how well their lives reflect Jesus' command to love. The key takeaway is that our love for others should be the defining mark of our identity as Christ's followers.
I WILL STATEMENT:
I WILL have a political conversation this week where I demonstrate Jesus’ love over my political positions.
CLOSING PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your command to love one another. Help me to love others as You have loved me, especially those with whom I may disagree. Teach me to prioritize love over politics and to show kindness, respect, and understanding in all my interactions. Amen.