Real Love

John 15:12-13

12 This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.13 Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.

QuickWord: Real Love…

The word love is often used to express feelings among persons who have close relationships. This can be a relationship between husbands and wives, between parents and children, between family members and friends. This word connotates a connection that cannot be easily broken but also a willingness of all parties involved to meet and love people who are imperfect and flawed. John teaches us in these two verses the significance of Real Love:

- Real Love is a Commandment from God; it’s not an option…

- Real Love requires us to love one another as Jesus Loved us…

- Real Love is the willingness to lay down one’s life for his friends…

When using the word love, consider these characteristics that indicate Real Love. Are we being obedient to the commands of God or is the word loved used in passing? Do we love people the way Jesus loves us, through our flaws and imperfections? Are we willing to lay down our lives for our friends? Real Love is exemplified in the death of Jesus on the cross for his friends, who are the friends of Jesus, we are, you and I. I’m thankful that God’s love for us is REAL. Without the love of God and his gift of His son Jesus for our sins, we would have no hope. If no one tells you today that they love you, take comfort in knowing that Jesus loves you and His desire is to be in relationship with you today and forever more! Thank God for real love!!!