Jan 18

Using the three chapters of John (3, 4, and 7) is just one way of describing the various levels or depths of relationship one can have with the Lord. Another similar illustration is to think of terms of three people mentioned in Scripture: Martha, Mary, and the jar-woman already mentioned from John 4.

Martha is familiar to most of us because she is the symbol for one who is concerned with serving Jesus. She showed her love for him in this way. It is a good way, make no mistake about it. If only more who say they love God would show that love by serving him and others. For, so often, people say that they love God, but when he doesn't answer their prayers the way that they want him to, or people don't do things their way--look out! Their so-called love vanishes quickly.

Hosea 6:4 describes this kind of love in this way:

"Your love is like the morning mist, like the early dew that disappears."

This type of love for God is actually a disguise for love of self, and that becomes apparent when that self does not get what it wants. Such lovers of God are not really serving God or others but themselves.

How would you describe your own love for God?

Scripture for today: Luke 10:38-42
Thought for today: Serving God must flow from a love for God, not love of self.
Prayer for today: Lord Jesus, I want to serve you, but I want to serve you for the right reason: love for you. Cleanse my heart of any false motives for serving you. Amen.

JAN 18