John 15:13 – Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.

An entire nation was revived when John Knox prayed, “Lord, give me Scotland, or I die.” But what many people don’t know is what Knox wrote concerning the answer to that prayer. The Lord responded in his heart, saying, “First die, then I’ll give you Scotland.” You see, we often prayer this way, “Make this relationship work, or I’m going to die.” “Die first,” the Lord says. Lay down your life for your wife, your neighbor, your friend. That is not only the proof of your love, but the pathway to love, because love is not some feeling you hope returns, not some kind of elusive mystical emotion. It’s the decision to die to your dreams, your desires, your needs, and your wants and instead lay down your life for your friend, your spouse, your neighbor, or your kids. When you do this by faith, God has a way of blessing you in ways you never thought you could be blessed. Your dreams, your desires, your needs and your wants all become exactly what God sees best for you. Trust me, they are much better when they come from God.

Challenge:

When was the last time you put aside your schedule to meet the needs of another? Do you serve those around you? Do you find yourself looking for ways to serve people? Jesus taught us very clearly in Matthew 23:11, that to be great was accomplished by being a servant. Your challenge this week is to set aside your desires and your wants for the desires and needs of others. If you find yourself on an airplane, help someone put their bag in the overhead compartment. Offer to help to load someones groceries into their car or carry them into their home. Be the one to step in and help in anyway that is needed. Rather than just walking by or staying out of the conversation, engage yourself and offer assistance. Display to others the love God has displayed to you. When you do, you will be showing the greatest kind of love that one person can show to another. The same kind of love that Jesus has shown to you. God bless you.