Love Is Not Self Seeking

 

Art work by my favorite painter John Sloane.

1 Corinthians 13:5, " ..love does not seek its own." 

This verse guides us into the understanding that biblical love doesn't put self first, it doesn't insist on its own rights. Rather, this love doesn't think about self, but seeks the good or interests of others first.

This is not to say that we give into the demands of entitled, selfish or demanding people. This would only feed the sin in their hearts.

We do, however, take notice of the needs others have for our time, attention, love, and prayer, and physical needs.

This comes about as we choose to "see" outside of ourselves. 

When we remove our focus from our own wants and needs, and leave them in the hands of the Lord, we are freed up to listen and understand the hearts of those around us.

You know when you've truly been heard and understood. You are blessed by those who tarried long enough in your presence to "see" your need.

Perhaps, someone cared enough to truly hear the cry of your heart, or maybe they took the time to notice that you had an unspoken need and they responded to the need financially, emotionally or spiritually.

These moments are so meaningful.

When we are able to put aside our own wants to meet another's needs first, we are extending Christ's love and grace.

It takes patience and time, but it deeply waters others hearts.

A kind word when others are agitated brings peace.  A gentle answer turns away wrath the Bible says.

Seeking to be a peace maker brings many blessings into a home.

Our love may not change a person who cannot receive or appreciate our efforts, but God is honored 

The Bible says that so far as it depends on you live peaceably with others. 

When you make the self sacrificing effort to reach out in love you can then leave all consequences to God.

Not everyone will respond to the sacrifice you have made to be kind, but your own heart will be blessed and you can move on in peace and leave others in God's Hands.

God's love is sacrificial. 

He asks us to sacrifice our own busy lives to care about others.

This doesn't mean we don't care for ourselves, but that we are able to put the needs of others ahead when necessary.

And that we are working to put our own wants and needs in the proper place.....at the disposal of God.

The givers are always the happiest people.

Giving truly brings joy.

The life of a person who is interested in others is always an adventure.

Those who seek to climb to the top and never think of serving others tend to be unhappy and unfulfilled. Their hearts are empty while their hands are full.

Be a happy giver.

Truly take the time to see the people around you.

If you belong to Jesus you are filled with blessings pressed down, shaken together and running over. 

This fullness is given to share. And, as it's shared, more of Christ's goodness is poured back into your heart. Blessings overflow to you and those you give to.

Remember.....you can't outgive God.❤️