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The True Nature Of Love // Praise & Shine

The true nature of love is sacrificial, according to the apostle Paul, in 2 Corinthians 8:3. He explained to the Corinthians that the Macedonians gave “even beyond their ability” so they could meet the needs of the apostles and others. They even “pleaded” with Paul for the opportunity to give to them and to God’s people. The basis for their giving was the sacrificial heart of Jesus Himself. He left the riches of heaven to come to earth to be a servant and to give His very life. “Though he was rich, yet for [our] sake he became poor” (v. 9). May we too plead with God so that we might “excel in this grace of giving” (v. 7) in order to lovingly meet the needs of others.

Accessible To All // Praise & Shine

The Bible describes the road that leads to eternal life as narrow “and only a few find it” (Matthew 7:14). The gate is considered small because God the Son is the only bridge that can reconcile fallen man and God the Father through the power of the Holy Spirit (vv. 13–14; see John 10:7–9; 16:13). However, Scripture also says in Revelation 5:9 that believers from every people, nation, and societal rank can enter heaven and will bow before the King of Kings and worship together around His throne.

Not Forgotten // Praise Shine

When have you felt alone, forsaken, and forgotten by God? How does processing the love of God expressed by sending Jesus to die for your sins help to counter feelings of being forgotten by Him?

Our Heavenly Father knows when we’re tempted to feel neglected, forgotten, and abandoned, He helps us to ponder again the love He demonstrated by sending Jesus to die for us.

Navigating The Storms Of Life // Praise & Shine

When we find the storms of life, we might try offering the prayer of Psalm 43. In this psalm, the psalmist is overwhelmed and feeling lost because he feels surrounded by evil and injustice. In despair, the psalmist pleads with God to provide His sure guidance to help him safely navigate through the situation to his desired destination, God’s presence (vv. 3–4). In God’s presence the psalmist knows he’ll find renewed hope and joy.