In our last few posts, we’ve explored what it means to abide—staying connected to Jesus, bearing fruit, and trusting Him even when life feels like it’s being pruned.
But Jesus doesn’t stop there.
He turns to His disciples, looks them in the eye, and says:
“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.
Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.
You are my friends if you do what I command.”
—John 15:12–14
Our connection to Christ was never meant to stop with us. It’s meant to flow through us.
What Kind of Love Are We Talking About?
Jesus doesn’t say, “Love others when it’s easy.”
He says, “Love one another as I have loved you.”
This is sacrificial love. Grace-filled love. Love that shows up even when it’s inconvenient or undeserved. Love that endures frustration and pain. This kind of love doesn’t come from our emotions—it comes from the Fruit of the Spirit living within us.
Let’s be real—sometimes the hardest part of being a Christian woman isn’t reading the Bible or praying consistently. It’s loving people when they’re hard to love.
But here’s the secret: the more we abide, the more His love flows through us.
We don’t have to manufacture this love. It’s a natural byproduct of abiding. The love we have for others flows from Jesus’ love for them—and His desire that they come to know Him.
As Christian women, we have the privilege of serving Jesus by showing others the love He so freely gives. We get to live out His heart for the world and share His love in meaningful ways.
Abiding Love in Real Life
Here’s what love rooted in Christ might look like in your day-to-day:
- Giving grace to your spouse when you’re frustrated, irritated, or disappointed.
- Choosing to forgive a friend who hurt you. Is she struggling with life and in need of grace, just like you?
- Texting that woman at church who’s having a hard time. A simple message, phone call, or handwritten note can brighten someone’s day.
- Taking time to really listen. Resist the urge to jump in with your own story or try to fix their problem. Just be a friend who listens.
- Speaking truth in love instead of avoiding conflict. Try gently asking, “Are you alright? What you said didn’t sound like something you’d normally say.”
When we stay connected to the Vine, our lives begin to reflect the heart of Jesus. Our actions and attitudes become Spirit-led, not flesh-driven or reactive.
Chosen and Appointed
Jesus ends this passage with something powerful:
“You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit… so that whatever you ask the Father in My name, He may give it to you.”
—John 15:16
You’re not an afterthought, friend. (Please read that again.)
You are chosen, appointed, and loved—on purpose, for a purpose.
Your fruitfulness is not about your performance, but about your position—abiding in the One who chose you. And when you live in the peace of knowing you are loved, chosen, and appointed, it changes how you relate to others.
Love in Action
I once read a story about a man who saved his money for years to buy an expensive painting. He loved this piece of art and admired it every day after finally bringing it home.
One day, children came over to play. In an innocent moment, the painting was accidentally scratched.
Was the man upset? Yes! But then he thought carefully.
He realized he would always remember the joy and laughter that filled his home the day the painting was marred. Rather than mourn the flaw, he treasured it—because it reminded him how much he loved the children and the joy they brought.
That’s fruit. That’s love.
That’s what abiding looks like when it overflows into our relationships. Those in our lives will feel the effects of our love for Jesus—and His love for them.
Reflect & Respond
Read John 15:12 17 and ask: Who is Jesus calling me to love today?
Journal this: How has abiding in Jesus helped me love more like Him?
Pray:
“Lord, fill me with Your love so I can love others well. Let Your heart be seen in mine.”
In the comments:
Share a way someone has shown Christ-like love to you—and how it impacted your life.
