......layers

Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us. Romans 5:5

Love comes in layers. The intimate love of a married couple is very exclusive. The love we have for our children is intense. We have friends we love on a different level, and there’s a special bond of love that unites followers of Christ. And yet, even with all those love layers extending from us, there is still enough love within us - thanks to the Holy Spirit! - to love the whole world.

That’s why the Bible tells us:

to entertain strangers Hebrews 13:2, 

to have pity on the poor Proverbs 19:17, 

to bear one another’s burdens Galatians 6:2, 

to visit orphans and widows in their distress James 1:27, 

to love our enemies and do good to those who hate us Luke 6:27, 

to support the weak Acts 20:35, 

to “be kindly affectionate to one another” Romans 12:10.

Love is demonstrated not just through words, but through actions. Be intentional in loving others, and God will reward you for your faithful obedience to His command.

"True love is an act of the will — a conscious decision to do what is best for the other person instead of ourselves." Billy Graham