Realigning Love and Use

Scripture: 1 John 4:7-8 (NIV) - "Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love."

Introduction:

In a culture that often prioritizes material possessions and personal gain, it's easy to fall into the trap of loving things and using people to achieve our ends. This reversal of priorities stands in stark contrast to the biblical call to love people and use things. This devotional explores how we can realign our hearts and actions with God's commandment to love one another, fostering genuine relationships that reflect His love.

Devotional:

The modern world bombards us with messages that equate happiness with possessions and success with the accumulation of wealth. In this environment, it's tempting to place a higher value on things than on people, leading us to "love things and use people." However, this mindset not only leads to shallow and unfulfilling relationships but also distances us from the heart of God.

1 John 4:7-8 reminds us that love is the essence of God's character and should therefore be the foundation of our interactions with others. To love like God means to value people over possessions, to prioritize relationships over acquisitions, and to serve rather than be served.

To break free from the cycle of loving things and using people, we must first examine our hearts and ask God to help us see where our priorities have been misplaced. This requires a conscious effort to value individuals not for what they can offer us but for their inherent worth as God's creation.

Practically, this can mean making time for others even when there's no immediate benefit to us, listening with empathy and without judgment, and offering help without expecting anything in return. It's about being present in our relationships, showing the kind of unconditional love that God shows us.

Moreover, realigning our love and use involves stewardship of our possessions. Recognizing that everything we have is a gift from God, we're called to use our resources to bless others, whether that's through generosity, hospitality, or using our talents to serve the community.

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father, forgive us for the times we've valued possessions over people and used relationships for our gain. Help us to see others through Your eyes, with the love and value You place on each person. Guide us to use the things You've entrusted to us for the good of others and for Your glory. Teach us to love genuinely, reflecting Your heart in all our interactions. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Reflection:

Consider your current priorities and relationships. Are there areas where you've valued possessions or personal gain over genuine connections? How can you actively practice loving people and using things in a way that honors God?