Family Day 9: Faith that expresses itself through love.
Today's Scripture
If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
— 1 Corinthians 13:1-7 (NIV)
Reflect on the Word
Paul wrote the letter of 1 Corinthians to a church in the city of Corinth when he learned that the believers there were not getting along. They were not loving each other very well. They cared more about how they looked and what people thought of them.
Paul reminded the Christians that the Holy Spirit lived inside of them and had given them gifts, not to be the best or so that people would admire them, but so that they could love one another and share His love with others.
The same thing is true for us today. We may have lots of gifts and talents, but if we don’t love God and others, it doesn’t mean anything. God cares more about our hearts and how well we love than how popular, talented or admired we are. As we grow closer to God and feel His love, it should make us more loving to the people around us.
Family Moment
Turn the words of 1 Corinthians 13 into a prayer of blessing for each family member. “We pray that God will strengthen you with His Holy Spirit, empowering you to love as He does. May you love without comparison, competition, selfishness or anger. We pray that out of God’s great love for you, you’ll persevere in relationships, live with kindness when you don’t feel like it, trust others, cheer for others and have patience. May God give you the ability to show His love in ways that would be impossible without the power of the Holy Spirit.”
Let's Pray!
Reflect on a time you experienced God’s love. What was that like? Thank God for loving you more than you can even imagine. And if there are people you’re struggling to love, ask for God’s help. Trust that His love for you can overflow to the people around you.