Scripture (KJV) – 1 John 4:20-21
“If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?
And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.”
Reflection
It is easy to say that we love God. The real test often comes in how we treat the people around us, especially those who have disappointed us, offended us, or made life difficult.
John does not soften his words. He tells us that claiming to love God while harboring hatred toward another person is a contradiction. Our relationship with God should change the way we treat others. The love Christ places within us should become visible through forgiveness, compassion, patience, kindness, and mercy.
That does not mean we must approve of everything another person does. Biblical love never requires us to call sin acceptable, nor does forgiveness mean that wisdom and healthy boundaries are unnecessary. We can stand firmly upon God’s truth without allowing bitterness and hatred to take root in our hearts.
This Scripture calls for personal examination. Is there someone whose name brings anger to your heart? Someone you refuse to forgive? Perhaps you have carried resentment so long that it has begun to feel justified. God may be using His Word today to expose something that needs to be surrendered.
Remember how much Christ has forgiven us. We were not saved because we deserved mercy. God loved us while we were sinners and sent His Son to die for us. When we understand the depth of that love, it becomes much harder to justify hatred toward someone else.
Sometimes loving another person begins with a simple prayer: “Lord, change my heart toward them.”
We cannot control what others do, but with God’s help, we can control what we allow to remain within our own hearts.
If we say we love God, that love should be seen in the way we love others.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for loving me and showing me mercy through Jesus Christ. Search my heart today and reveal any bitterness, hatred, resentment, or unforgiveness that I have allowed to remain. Help me forgive those who have hurt me and love others with the love You have shown me. Give me wisdom to stand firmly for truth while treating people with compassion and grace. Guard my heart from bitterness, and let the love of Jesus Christ be seen through my words, attitudes, and actions. May my life demonstrate that my love for You is genuine. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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