Get real...really

(Originally written Nov. 6)

Today: 1 John

“Real” is a favorite word of my generation—but does it really mean?

In today’s passage, the writer talks about “living in God’s reality”—the reality of love. Let’s read it here:

My dear children,
let’s not just talk about love;
let’s practice real love.
This is the only way we’ll know we’re living truly,
living in God’s reality.
It’s also the way to shut down debilitating self criticism,
even when there is something to it.
For God is greater than our worried hearts
and knows more about us than we do ourselves.

I thought it was interesting to see love and fear discussed throughout this passage. God and His love “shut down” things like self criticism. However, that only happens when love is practiced, not just discussed. It’s good to know that real love is much greater than fear—and that a real God is greater than anything we might worry about.

So let’s get real: Let’s not just hear it or read it; let’s believe it and live it. Love God, love people—and allow God to love you. Really.

Tomorrow: 2 John - Jude