1 John 3:18 (KJV)
My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.
According to this Scripture, true love is demonstrated through our actions and commitment to truth, emphasizing the importance of love as more than just something we talk about. It’s not just about what we say but what we do. The Apostle John encourages us to demonstrate our love through tangible acts of kindness and genuine concern for others. Actions, not words, prove love, and self-sacrifice is the chief characteristic of love. It’s essential that we don’t just express our love for one another with words; we must demonstrate the authenticity of that love through our actions. John 13:34 says, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” Our faith should be evident in the way we live our lives and how we treat others. Words can be empty without the backing of genuine, loving actions. Loving in deed and truth is being authentic and consistent in our care for others, showing compassion and support in practical, meaningful ways. Loving in deed and truth can be a profound journey that may demand sacrifices and bring about pain, yet it is a testament to our strength and commitment.
Love is the greatest commandment on earth. The Scriptures offer us an account of the source, character, and value of love based on the nature and actions of God. It instructs that God is the source of love, and His very character is love. 1 John 4:7 says, “Love comes from God, and everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.” In other words, love is a central characteristic of who God is. Everything God does is driven and influenced by His love. Ephesians 5:2 says, “And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.” As Christians, we have a model for love that demonstrates what love truly is. Jesus Christ’s sacrificial death exemplifies the profound nature of true love. Jesus demonstrated His love for us through action and truth. Even while we were still sinners, Christ boldly laid down His life as a sacrifice to eliminate our sins. His love is unparalleled; He gave everything, sacrificing Himself so that we could have life. This Christian love is rooted in history and expressed through a cruciform pattern highlighting its transformative essence. It is not simply a sentimental feeling; it requires genuine sacrifice, as demonstrated by Christ’s willingness to give His life. Therefore, we are unequivocally called to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. This is not merely a theoretical discussion about love—it’s a decisive mandate to put love into action and practice it in its truest form.
Beloved, true Christian love demands more than words; it calls for action. When the pure love of Jesus resides in your heart, you are equipped to love not with empty words or meaningless talk but with genuine acts of kindness and compassion. Loving in spirit, word, deed, and truth is a clear manifestation of a life transformed by dying to self and fully abiding in Christ. Today, think about how you can put this love into action. Be intentional and practical in your acts of kindness, compassion, and support, ensuring your love is evident and impactful. Consider small, everyday gestures that can make a significant impact—helping a neighbor, volunteering your time, or simply being present for a friend in need. Reflect on how you can embody this call to action in your daily life. Let your actions align more closely with the love you profess. Show love in practical ways that make a difference to those around you. Remember, embracing God’s love is the key to loving others, and whatever will hurt you or be painful to you will also hurt or be painful to others.
O Lord, help me to demonstrate my love not only in words but in deed and truth in Jesus’ Name.