Stress Test Devotional May 4
May 04, 2024
JOHN 13:34 | 34 I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another.
Indeed, following the final meal, Judas leaves the group of disciples and heads for his moment of paid betrayal.
Immediately Jesus issues the new love command to the remaining eleven. They are to take fear out of intimacy by resolving to love one another unconditionally and resolutely. When we know someone is committed to our good without reservation, we can share ourselves freely without fear. This is the way Jesus loved his friends, not putting his own good above theirs and not prioritizing his advantage over their needs. He did so even when he knew not only the risks of betrayal and abandonment, but the coming reality of it! His love was not dependent on their faithfulness—but certainly would come to empower it, when his spirit was given to aid in our weakness and temerity.
How defensive are you in relationships?
Does fear or love dictate your behavior?
