Love That Looks Like Jesus

The credibility of our witness depends not only on what we believe, but on how we love. When love looks like Jesus, the world notices, not because we are perfect, but because we are different. In times of division and hostility, Christ calls His Church to love in ways that reflect Him.

Scripture: John 13:34–35; Romans 12:9–18

Examination:

Love is always easy when everyone agrees with you. It will come naturally when our relationships are comfortable and conversations feel safe. The Bible makes it clear that the love Jesus calls His followers to is not through measured convenience, it is revealed in difficulty. Chaos and crisis does not create love; it exposes what kind of love we truly carry.

In John 13:34–35, Jesus gives His disciples a new command: to love one another as He has loved them. His command does not come during a moment of peace, but instead it was right before the eve of betrayal, denial, and the cross. Jesus knew that fear, confusion, and division were about to test His followers. Love, He taught them, would be the unmistakable mark of those who belonged to Him.

The world’s culture has a version of love that is often conditional. It loves when they are affirmed, and will withdraw when challenged, and retaliates when wounded. Christlike love is different. Romans 12:9–18 shows us that love is sincere, it’s love that clings to what is good, honors others, seeks peace, and overcomes evil with good. True love does not ignore truth, but it refuses to surrender compassion. It does not compromise convictions, but it never abandons grace.

In times of extreme chaos and crisis, love becomes costly. There will be times when it means listening when it would be easier to argue. Sometimes it will mean showing patience when emotions run high. One of the hardest things sometimes will be refusing to dehumanize people who see the world differently, when they are pushing and doing things that do not make sense to us. Practicing this love does not mean that we agree with everything, it means understanding everyone is someone Christ died for.

When believers respond with harshness, defensiveness, or contempt, the gospel becomes harder to hear. But when believers personify love with humility and courage, hearts soften, even if minds do not immediately change. We must resist the temptation to mirror the world’s anger. Instead, it must reflect Christ’s heart. Loving well in difficult times may be the most powerful testimony believers can offer.

My mouth will tell about your righteousness, and of your salvation all day, though I don’t know its full measure. I will come with the mighty acts of the Lord Yahweh. I will make mention of your righteousness, even of yours alone. God, you have taught me from my youth. Until now, I have declared your wondrous works. Yes, even when I am old and gray-haired, God, don’t forsake me, until I have declared your strength to the next generation, your might to everyone who is to come. Psalm 71:15-18 

Christlike love will require self-examination. Crisis can amplify frustration, impatience, and fear. If we leave these emotions unchecked, we can quietly reshape how believers speak and act.Romans 12:9–18 challenges us to pause and ask: Is my love genuine? Am I seeking peace, or proving a point? Am I reflecting Christ, or simply reacting to pressure?

In a divided and hurting world, love that looks like Jesus stands out. It speaks truth without arrogance. It offers grace without compromise. It holds convictions firmly while holding people gently. This kind of love does not blend in, it shines.

Thoughts to Ponder

1. Who is God calling you to love more intentionally?
   
2. How can you show Christlike love without compromising truth?
   
3. What attitudes might need to change in your heart?

Choose today to let love, not fear or frustration, guide your responses.

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, teach me to love like You love. Soften my heart and shape my words and actions to reflect Your grace. Help me to walk the path that You want me to take, make obvious so that I can walk confidently in it. Use my life to point others to You. In Jesus Name Amen

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