It’s so easy to love people who show us love in return. It’s also a sure way to feel good about ourselves.

As Christ followers, we are to love beyond that. We are also called to love those who are hard to love (Luke 6:34-36). That can be a challenge because we tend to qualify such people to varying degrees, sometimes based on our emotions. Differing personalities and our sense of pride can also cause us to bristle at the humbling act of demonstrating love.

We tend to think of love in sweet and smiley ways, but love is also given in service and sacrifice to others. It is demonstrated in selfless acts for another person. God models love in the ways he deals with us. He gave the ultimate sacrifice to us even when we were against him in our sin. Jesus sacrificed immensely by leaving Heaven to come to Earth, living amongst those whom he created yet were against him, and suffering in death for us to be restored to God.

This forgiveness is also our springboard to loving others when it feels hard to do. As a way to put into practice loving God, he gives us the opportunity to love our family members. 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a (letter L in Keep on Track) lays out specific ways to show love to others. Let’s break down the passage and ask ourselves how we are loving our family.

Love is patient. What is my attitude as I am getting my family out the door?  

Love is kind. Do I show a welcoming smile when my family members arrive home?

It does not envy. Am I thankful for and content with what God has given me?  

It does not boast. Do I share in my family member’s success without inserting my own?

It is not proud. Do I serve my family even in the menial tasks?

It does not dishonor others. Do I speak well of my family members?  

It is not self-seeking. Do I look for ways to bless my family?

It is not easily angered. Do I remain calm when things do not go my way?

It keeps no record of wrongs. Am I quick to forgive?

Love does not delight in evil. Do I choose to not dwell on how I was hurt by someone?

But rejoices with the truth. Do I praise God and thank him for his goodness?

It always protects.  Do I guard my relationships in a way that honors God?

It always trusts. Do I choose to believe the good I am told?

It always hopes. Do I believe God is at work in my family members’ lives?

It always perseveres. Do I continue to grow my family relationships?

Love never fails. Am I consistent in demonstrating love?

With this passage in our minds and God’s love in our hearts, “let us love one another, for love comes from God” (1 John 4:7a NIV).  

Keep God’s words on your mind and his love in your heart as you work through a Heart Training book as a family devotional!