Today’s declaration includes an “I can” statement based on truth. Previously on this podcast, I’ve talked about the difference between “I can” statements, which demonstrate ability, and “I will” statements, which demonstrate intention.

God enables us to love, but we get to choose whether we actually will love others. We are created, called and commanded to love. We are also capable. God wants us to love not only each other (as in those we choose to hang around and be with, those who are easy to love), he also wants us to love everyone else. I looked up the original Greek word translated as “everyone else” in the NIV, and it means, “each, every, any, all, the whole, everyone, all things, everything.”

God never commands us to do anything without also empowering us to do it. Because God has poured out his love into us by the Holy Spirit, we absolutely can love each, every, any, all, etc., etc. As this world grows more and more divided, those of us who are filled with the Holy Spirit need to love others more than ever. Did you know that love is a verb? It’s not merely a feeling, it’s an action. We love because God first loved us, and God demonstrated his love for us in this, while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Love is demonstrated, not just experienced. Love calls us to action. And our declaration reminds us that we are fully equipped.

God will show you how to love each other and everyone else. It may look like sending a birthday card to that difficult person. It may look like sending a contribution to a charity. It may look like volunteering to serve in your local community or across the globe. Here’s the thing, since God pours his love into you and causes the overflow, he will direct you on how to love others with the same love he has poured into you.

Have you visited my website lately? The “Podcast” tab in the main navigation bar now not only takes you to this podcast, where you can see all the images that I create each week with the declarations on them, but it also provides a link to my new video podcast called, “Find Joy.” The first 10 episodes walk you through my book, Longing to Belong. I’ve already posted five episodes, so we are halfway through, but you can join in at the beginning at any time. Learn more on my website at shawnamariebryant.com.

This week’s scripture: 1 Thessalonians 3:12-13