John 13:34
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.”
When you woke up this morning, you faced an old enemy. That enemy was not an invading army or a terrorist. It was the enemy of self. The greatest threat to our maturity is we think of ourselves far too often. But why do we choose this route when Jesus has better things in mind? The answer lies in the enemy’s whisperings, “Go ahead, indulge yourself. You deserve to be happy.” But honestly, have you noticed how unhappy you become when your eyes are focused on yourself?
Like infatuation is to love, happiness is to joy.
The sad truth is that the road to happiness is never-ending. The destination is always just around the corner. The Lord would rather have us pursue the joy of blessing others instead of fleeting happiness. Like infatuation is to love, happiness is to joy. One is emotionally powerful but short-lived, while the other is meaningful and abiding. When our eyes are centered on ourselves and our happiness, we become the most important thing, which is the opposite of true Christianity. Following Christ means that I have, by His power, determined to love others more than myself.
Today, can you and I make an agreement to let the welfare and growth of others govern our actions and words? Let’s agree to put self-interests on the back burner and be free from the tyranny of self. Jesus Christ has promised to take care of our needs. Now, let us see to it that we love those that God puts in our path.
Awaiting His return,
– Pastor Jack
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