Real Love

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March 10th, 2019

Hey everyone, I hope everyone had a blessed week. I have been overwhelmed and stressed these past few weeks with trying to get a dress for prom, having struggles in my friendships, and realizing that there are not many days left till high school is over. I am just going to cherish everyday left of high school.

My pastor did a two week series called "Noticeable." I wanted to share with you the sermon my pastor preached today called "Love In Action."

So first, what is the definition of noticeable?

The word noticeable means easily seen or noticed, clear or apparent.

To be a noticeable believer, we must love others more than ourselves. Love will almost always cost us something. It is human nature for us to be selfish and jealous and petty, so always showing godly love to others is hard. Real love is patient, kind, understanding, and not selfish.

Our pastor talked about the story of The Good Samaritan, which comes from Luke 10:30-37. He told us three ways we could be like The Good Samaritan.

First, our pastor said we must have a soft heart. In verse 33, it said The Good Samaritan saw the levite, and "when he saw him, he took pity on him." Our hearts should go out to others in need, and we should do something about it. I believe that sometimes the Lord tests us, for instance, I recently had a close friend that has been distant lately, and I did not understand why or what was wrong with her. I was upset and confused as she became more and more distant and not like herself. I kept showing her God's love, and then I finally talked to her about it; now I understand that she just needed some space, because she is going through a lot right now. Being patient, understanding, and showing God's love to others is important.

Second, our pastor said sometimes we have to get our hands dirty. Sometimes others will get into "messes" in their lives and we need to help them. In verse 34, it said The Good Samaritan, "bandaged the Levite's wounds" which were from the robbers that almost beat him to death.

Last, our pastor said we need to have an open wallet. In verse 35, The Good Samaritan took the Levite to an inn and in the verses it said, "he took two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. 'Look after him,' he said,' and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you make have.'"

Real love is not something you declare, it is something you do, as it says in 1 John 3:18, "Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth." We must show our love in what we do. A perfect example is in Romans 5:8, "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Real love is intentional. If we see others in need, we should help them. Actions speak louder than words.

So got out and show others God's love today. I hope everyone has a blessed week.