Undefeated Love
Revelation 2:3-4 “You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name and have not grown weary. Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first.”
Recently I saw a list of the top traits singles are looking for in a future spouse. It included qualities like kindness, honesty, physical attractiveness, humor, and an engaging personality. In the book of Revelation, we get a list of what Jesus is looking for in His people. You might think the list would include traits like morality, mission focus, faithfulness, and correct doctrine. All of these are admirable qualities, but the list is missing the most important one . . . love.
God wants us to live in a way where our love for others will last the long-haul. It is possible, however, to find ourselves in a situation where our love slips.
Here are some indicators:
- We serve without Jesus’ character
- We feel more strongly about moral standards than serving people
- We are more passionate about doctrine than reflecting Jesus
- We become more committed to a cause than to people
So how can we return to a place where we can truly care for others? First, remember what love looks like. Then repent and turn around. Finally, listen, serve and speak about your affection for others.
How about you? On a scale from 1-10, how much love do you have for your neighbor or co-worker? Do they know that you truly care? Has your heart become robotic, and duty-focused to others?
Take some time read and reflect on Revelation 2:1-5 and 1 Corinthians 13. Allow God to warm your heart towards others. Learn to live in His Undefeated Love.