RE Verse reading–Genesis 1:1, Psalm 100, John 3:16, 2 Corinthians 8:8-9, Philippians 2:5-8, James 1:17-18 (day three) “Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father” (James 1:17) Remember Gary Chapman’s book THE FIVE LOVE LANGUAGES? It was a turning point for many. 1) Words of affirmation, 2) Touch, 3) Quality Time, 4) Acts of service, 5) Gifts. . . Chapman proposed that we all have a preferred language for expressing and receiving love. What is God’s language of love? Perhaps all, but certainly Acts of service. “God demonstrates His love for us in that while we were sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8) He shows us His love by serving us, providing for us. Picture Jesus on His knees washing the disciples feet! If deeds are God’s language for expressing love to us, doesn’t it follow that He will receive love from us in similar fashion? “If you love me, keep my commandments” said Jesus. (John 14:10) Faith without works is dead. Love without works is too.
I remember how the book referenced above helped me see some things I had not seen before in my “lostness.” However, I have now come to believe that books which serve to help you “love others”….so that they might then love you….are just teaching manipulation and still falling short of teaching the intention of God for our lives. I am absolutely convinced we are to receive all of the things we try to manipulate others into giving us (love, acceptance, approval, purpose, meaning, comfort, friendship, etc.) from God directly/acknowledging Him as the giver of all good gifts/things. Then, having received from Him, we are to turn around and serve others. The greatest in the Kingdom of God will be the servant of all. The more you fill up on Him…. the more you will serve because He changes you as He fills you. He opens your eyes to things unseen. I do not think it is any human’s place to “fill” anyone else. We should love each other deeply, serve each other eagerly as the Lord leads, but seeing it as our job to “fill” someone else’s love tank is to try in vain to fill God’s role in their lives (just my humble opinion). Of course, a lost person is absolutely different…. God will use His kindness through you to draw them to Himself. Love/fill away!… just always point to the Source. The temptation is always to have impure motives.
BTW I think the reference is John 14:15… the verses around it are talking about prayer. Which brings me to what I think our job is…. to pray. This is how a Christian is to love, viewing people not according to the flesh, but praying that God will “fill” and do His will in their lives. No person is beyond His touch/help. May He forever be praised!!
Father, Bless us in our understanding of You, the giver of every good thing/perfect gift.