‘And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love, lives in God, and God in them.’ (1 John 4:16, NIV)

This year’s theme for Self-Denial is ‘Love in Action’. Together we will be looking at the connection between self-denial—denying ourselves from something for the sake of others and God—and love. The love that we will be talking about is the truest form of love—God!

Just like this week’s scripture says, God is love. That’s a pretty big statement to make! And this deep and powerful love from God is focussed on each and every one of us. We are fully known and loved by God. We are all seen through the lens of love, because that’s what is at the heart of all God is and does. In fact, God loved us so much that he sent his son to die for us—the ultimate act of sacrificial love. Not only does this show us how deep God’s love is for us, but it tells us what he thinks of us.

We are chosen, known and loved completely!

Sometimes we try to look for our security, self-esteem, love and wholeness from the love we receive from others, but it falls short.

That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try to love each other though. Once we begin to know and experience the depth of God’s love for ourselves, and live in and out of that love, we are asked to share it with others. We can’t give what we don’t have.

When we love God, and let ourselves be loved by God, we receive so much that we that we overflow that deep sacrificial love to those around us.

• Instead of going to God, where do I look for security, self-esteem, love and wholeness?
• What practices could I look to put in place or re-establish to be reminded daily of God’s love for me?

Think of a creative way to do something that shows love in action in your community.

God, thank you for your never-ending love for me. I pray that this week I will be able to experience more of your love. Help me also to show your love to those around me. Amen.