Real Love and Compassion: The Strength of Sacrifice
- meetgodattheedgeof
- Sep 1
- 2 min read
1 John 3:16–17
[16] We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us. So we also ought to give up our lives for our brothers and sisters.[17] If someone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister in need but shows no compassion—how can God’s love be in that person?
Jesus was put on earth to give us an example of living by our God’s will. Everything He did while walking this earth had a purpose, and it’s something we can learn from. From the way He selflessly healed all who came to Him, to washing the disciples’ feet, Jesus revealed the very philosophy of our faith. The biggest thing He showed us is love—and how true love must always involve some form of sacrifice.
Our lives and our possessions are not meant to be stored up for ourselves. They are tools. When used correctly and according to the example Jesus left us, our things become gifts to those in need. These selfless acts of real love and compassion can start someone down a path of discovering the Lord or bring them back on track by restoring their faith.
Compassion for the needy and the lost is part of being a follower of Jesus. Our brothers and sisters in Christ should hold a special place in our hearts because we share the same belief and commitment to walk in Jesus’s footsteps. Jesus’s love and compassion only exist with sacrifice—and that’s exactly what the Lord wants us to share with our brothers and sisters despite the cost.
Our God, who sees all things, will reward you for your righteousness. Just as Jesus gave up His life for us, we must also give our lives in service of our brothers and sisters. This is what it truly means to live with real love and compassion.
This is the way. Amen.
1 John 3:18–19
[18] Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions.[19] Our actions will show that we belong to the truth, so we will be confident when we stand before God.
