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Sacrificial Love: Following Jesus’ Example

Sacrificial Love: Following Jesus’ Example

Jan 26, 2025

Hey, y’all!

Love is most powerful when it’s sacrificial, and no one demonstrated this better than Jesus. His life and death were the ultimate acts of selfless love, showing us what it truly means to lay down our lives for others. John 15:13 captures this beautifully:

“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.”

Sacrificial love isn’t always about big, dramatic gestures—it’s often found in the small, everyday choices to put others before ourselves. Let’s explore what it looks like to follow Jesus’ example and live out sacrificial love in our own lives.

1. Jesus Is the Model of Sacrificial Love

Jesus didn’t just talk about sacrificial love; He lived it. From healing the sick to washing His disciples’ feet, He constantly put others before Himself. His ultimate act of love—laying down His life on the cross—wasn’t just for His friends but for all of humanity.

When we follow His example, we reflect His heart and bring His love into the lives of those around us.

2. Sacrificial Love Requires Humility

To love sacrificially, we need to set aside our pride and self-interest. Philippians 2:3-4 reminds us:

“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”

This kind of love doesn’t come naturally—it requires relying on God’s strength and grace.

3. Sacrificial Love Is Found in Everyday Actions

While we may not be called to physically lay down our lives, we’re often called to sacrifice our time, resources, or comfort for the sake of others. It might look like:

  • Supporting a friend in need, even when you’re busy.
  • Forgiving someone who hurt you, even when it’s hard.
  • Serving your family or community without expecting anything in return.

These small acts of sacrificial love have a big impact, reflecting Christ’s love in tangible ways.

4. Sacrificial Love Strengthens Relationships

When we choose to love selflessly, it deepens our connections with others. Whether in marriage, friendship, or a Christian community, sacrificial love builds trust, unity, and a shared sense of purpose.

5. Sacrificial Love Points Others to Christ

When we love sacrificially, people notice. It’s a powerful testimony of God’s love, showing others that His love is real and life-changing. As Matthew 5:16 says, “Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”

Practical Ways to Practice Sacrificial Love

  • Pray for a Humble Heart: Ask God to help you put others first and show His love through your actions.
  • Look for Opportunities to Serve: Identify small ways to sacrifice your time or resources for someone else’s benefit.
  • Forgive Freely: Sacrificial love often means letting go of resentment and choosing forgiveness.
  • Be Present: Give your full attention to the people in your life, even when it’s inconvenient.
  • Lean on God’s Strength: Sacrificial love isn’t easy, but with God’s help, it’s possible. Consider working with a Christian life coach to explore how you can grow in this area.

Challenge for Today: Think of one person in your life who could benefit from a small act of sacrificial love. Take a step today—whether it’s a kind word, an act of service, or offering forgiveness—to reflect Christ’s love in their life.

Sacrificial love may cost us something, but it’s always worth it. When we love as Jesus loved, we transform lives and draw closer to Him in the process.

Blessings to you all! See you tomorrow!


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