What’s The Loving Thing To Do?

Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do.
Ephesians 5:17 NLT

The central message of Christianity is love. God loves us. He wants us to love others like He does.

It’s pretty simple but sometimes we mess up the application. But the good news is there is grace and mercy. If you mess up, just confess your sins and move on. God still loves you.

Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God.
Ephesians 5:1-2 NLT

I’m often pondering what to do. What should I be doing? God often says, “Just love people.”

That doesn’t seem like too big of an ask. Just don’t be a selfish jerk and life gets better for everyone.

When we prioritize God’s values over our own carnal desires, we can intentionally love other people well. Where we get into trouble is when we get carnally minded, focus on worldly things, or get caught up in the base sins of the lust of the eye, the lust of the flesh and the pride of life. That separates our hearts from God and other people.

I think selfishness is really the root of all sin. It rebels against God’s authority and says, “I’m gonna do what I want regardless of how it affects others.”

So today, I hope to endeavor to be more loving. First, to God. Then, to myself — treating myself like I would a good friend. Taking care of ourselves is our responsibility. I tend to burn the candle at both ends and burn out. We must steward these bodies that we’ve been given with care and respect. Finally, I hope to be loving to whoever God puts in my path.

God loves you. I don’t care who you are. So we should be treating others with love. What’s the loving thing to do? Do that.

Lord God, fill our hearts afresh with Your love today. Help us be good ambassadors of the Kingdom, representing the Lord Jesus Christ well in thought, word and deed. Make us like You. Point out anything in us that does not please You and give us the desire and ability to make those changes. Amen.

“So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.”
John 13:34-35 NLT

Recommended reading: Ephesians 5 and John 13.