Love God, Love People

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.” - Matthew 22:37-39

When asked the greatest commandment, Jesus responded with this verse. It’s simple: love God, love people. Loving others is also a reflection of loving God. The two commandments are interconnected.

One of the best ways to show love for others is through acts of service. We exhibit generosity in our time and finances when we serve others. According to Time, expressing generosity can lower your blood pressure and increase your life expectancy.

Serving others can also be considered a form of worship.

How is Serving Others Considered Worship?

Worship is praising God and making Him first in your life. In Genesis 1:27, we learn that we were made in the image of God. By loving others, we’re loving God.

Worship requires us to be active in our faith. By participating in acts of service, we’re taking action through love and kindness.

“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve and give his life as a ransom for many.” - Matthew 20:28. Jesus was a great example of how to love others. He was active in his service and expressed God’s love. We’re called to humbly serve and love those around us.

How Can I Start Serving?

Learn Religions gives several great resources on how to start serving others. There are many opportunities to serve in your community. Find what you’re passionate about and what prompts your heart.

Several ways you can start serving others include:

•   Serve your family. Start by loving those closest to you. How can you provide support and offer acts of service to your loved ones?

•   Give tithes & offerings. Are there organizations you feel called to support? Contributing financially to help those in need is a great way to get started in serving.

•   Volunteer. There’s always a need to fill in the community. Whether you’re mentoring children or feeding the homeless, giving your time is one of the best ways to express your love.

•   Use your talents. Consider your spiritual gifts. There are many opportunities to serve with your skills in the church or your local community.

By serving others, we’re worshiping God. Showing love to His creation is a reflection of our love back to Him. We’re called to serve and express His unlimited love.

Whether you choose to greet at church on Sundays or donate your time to a meaningful cause, there are many ways to serve others. Ask God for wisdom and He’ll guide you on a beautiful path to get started.

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