Love That Strengthens the Body
Scripture Focus:
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
— John 13:34–35 (ESV)
Devotional Thought:
In His final hours before the cross, Jesus gave His disciples something new—not a suggestion, but a command. They were to love one another just as He had loved them. The Greek word He used for “love” is ἀγαπάω (agapaō), from the noun ἀγάπη (agapē)—a love that is selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional.
This kind of love is not based on feelings or convenience. It is a deliberate choice to act for the good of others, even when it costs us something. It’s the love Jesus showed when He washed His disciples’ feet (John 13:1–17) and when He went to the cross.
Then He added the reason: “By this all people will know that you are my disciples.” Love would be the unmistakable evidence of belonging to Him. The watching world wouldn’t recognize Jesus’ followers by their titles, positions, or even miracles—but by their agapē love for one another.
In the Body of Christ, this love is what strengthens the joints and holds us together. It keeps us patient when someone falls short. It fuels our service when we’re tired. It pushes us to put others before ourselves. Without love, the Body becomes brittle and easily fractured. With agapē love, it becomes strong, healthy, and a living witness to the world.
Prayer Focus:
Thank God for loving you first and setting the example through Jesus.
Ask Him to help you love others in the Body with agapē—selfless, sacrificial, unconditional love.
Pray for your church to be known in the community for genuine, Christ-like love.
Reflection Question:
If someone watched how I interact with my brothers and sisters in Christ, would they recognize me as a disciple of Jesus by my agapē love?
Closing Prayer:
Lord, thank You for the example of love You showed through Jesus. Teach me to walk in agapē love—sacrificially, patiently, and without conditions. Let my love be a source of strength in the Body and a testimony that draws others to You. In Jesus’ name, amen.
