Introduction (Do everything in Love)

Read it: “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love” (1 Corinthians 16:13–14, NIV)

Have you ever played a game where everyone had different motivations? Maybe one person wanted to win at all costs while someone else just wanted everyone to have fun. When we are motivated by different things, it changes how we play.

We are often told, “Do what’s best for you”, as though our own wants and feelings should always come first. But Jesus teaches a different way. He calls us to love Him and to love others, not out of pressure or to look good, but because love becomes the reason behind everything we do.

As we begin Self-Denial this year, we’re focusing on being Motivated by Love. Letting our actions, choices, serving and giving flow from a heart shaped by God’s love.

• What would it look like to give or serve because you want to, not because you have to?
• Can you think of someone in your life or in the Bible who was motivated by love?

Choose one practical way to show love this week—you could write a note, serve someone quietly or encourage a friend.

God, thank You for loving us so deeply. Help us understand Your love more and help us share it with others. This week, let our actions be motivated by love. Amen.