April 4: Motivated by Love

April 4: Motivated by Love

Scripture: "And this commandment we have from Him: That he who loves God love his brother also." — 1 John 4:21

Love is the basis of godliness. Regardless of our religious profession, no one has pure love for God unless they also have unselfish love for their fellow man. When self is merged in Christ, love springs forth spontaneously. It becomes natural to help and bless others because the sunshine of heaven fills the heart.

Connected with Christ, we are connected with our neighbors by the "golden links of the chain of love." We don't wait for people to ask for help; we look for opportunities to be a blessing. This was the example of Jesus—He went about doing good, not because He had to, but because it was His nature to love.

The glory of heaven is found in lifting up the fallen and comforting the distressed. There is no room for prejudice or "walls of partition" in the heart of a true believer. Christ came to demolish those walls, showing us that His love is deep enough and broad enough for every soul, regardless of their background or past mistakes.

As you go about your day, ask God to give you His eyes. See people not as interruptions or obstacles, but as precious souls for whom Christ died. A kind word or a simple act of service can be the very thing that reveals the Truth of God’s character to someone who is hurting.

Reflection Questions:

Is my service to others motivated by duty or by a heart full of love?

Who is someone in my life that I have "built a wall" against?

How can I "merge self in Christ" more fully today?

Source: Maranatha, p. 101, Ellen G. White.