His Glory, Our Story - Part V: Let Love Not Be Lost

Scripture: 
“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children, and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” ‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭5‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Observation: 
It is far easier to say we love Jesus than to ask ourselves whether or not our thoughts and actions reflect the love we profess. Ephesians chapter 5 shows us that, as God’s children, we should imitate our Heavenly Father. We are to do this by walking in love, light, and wisdom. It also reminds us that loving Christ isn’t just feelings or words and that good intentions are not enough as children of God. Being honest with ourselves means being willing to examine our own growth in Christ and to check our thoughts and actions without making excuses. “Catch for us the foxes, the little foxes that ruin the vineyards, our vineyards that are in bloom.” (Song of Solomon 2:15) The “little foxes” are the “small,” hidden, and neglected things that can damage what is growing. This verse reminds us how important it is to protect our relationship with God.

Application: 
Pastor Julius noted in Sunday’s message that love calls for honesty and action. “As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do.” (1 Peter 1:14-15) Here are a few things we must ask ourselves:
Are my thoughts and actions consistent with what I claim to believe?
Am I imitating Jesus more, or am I imitating Him less?
Am I becoming too comfortable with the things He wants to change in me?
Sometimes, it is far easier to focus on intention rather than the actual fruit we are bearing or not bearing. It’s important to look within and ask ourselves: “What might still need to be uprooted, so that I can be more like Jesus?”
Our relationship with Jesus can be hindered, not just by obvious sin and rebellion but also by the small compromises left unattended—things that aren’t as easily recognizable, such as habits I keep justifying; resentment I refuse to release, careless words spoken, pride within my heart, distractions in my mind—the list goes on. When ignored, these seemingly small compromises damage our spiritual growth; what is tolerated now becomes what controls us tomorrow. So, perhaps the question isn’t really just “do I love Jesus” but “how are my thoughts and actions reflecting that love?”
How blessed are we that our Heavenly Father knows when our words and actions do not match. His love, light, and wisdom are more than sufficient to guide us back into alignment with Jesus! Walking in His love does not mean that we will not stumble; it moves us to be honest, responsive, and teachable–His love will be evident through our actions and our fruit. 
Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank you for continually bringing me into Your light and showing me what compromises could be damaging what You are growing in me. Thank you for giving me all I could need to be more holy in You. Help me to receive Your correction, act on my convictions, and heed to Your wisdom—all of which align me more with You. Help me to live a life that reflects more of Your love. In the mighty name of Jesus, amen.