Sunday, August 9, 2026

Fill in the blank: I'm living for _____. 

Maybe your answer is your family or a dream you've been chasing. It could be financial security, making a difference, or simply making it through another busy week. 

Whether we realize it or not, we're all living for something. Even when that something is what we're against, like a person, political group, type of media or music, or even a group of people.

The problem with living for what we’re against is that it’s easy to let life become defined by it. And if we’re not careful, before long, that kind of life can leave us worn out or just going through the motions. 

If that is where you find yourself today, I encourage you not to stay there. Jesus invites us into a different way to live: a life centered on love. 

John 13:34-35
“So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.”

Jesus didn't call us to be known primarily for what we're against. He said we would be known by our love. 

That's a challenging invitation because love requires us to look beyond ourselves. It asks us to extend grace when it's difficult, serve when it's inconvenient, and choose unity when division seems easier. But this is the kind of life Jesus modeled for us, and it's the kind of life that points others to him.

Today, take a moment to honestly answer this question: What am I living for? 

Then ask God to show you one practical way to love someone the way he loves you. As you do, you may discover that living for love doesn't just change the people around you; it changes you, too. And when our lives are marked by love, we reflect the heart of Jesus to a world that desperately needs him. 

Discussion Questions: 

Ice Breaker: If your younger self met you today, would they see more joy, trust, and hope - or less? 

Why do you think Christians are often known more for what they're against than what they're for? 

Read John 15:1-11: How does this passage challenge the idea that spiritual growth comes primarily from effort and performance?

When life gets busy or difficult, what tends to replace your connection with Jesus? 

Reflect & Respond: What are you most connected to right now, and how is it shaping you? What is one practical way you can make space to remain connected to Jesus this week?

Prayer:
God, thank you for loving me just as I am, and for inviting me into a life shaped by your love. Help me to grow in ways that reflect your heart and your grace. Give me the courage to let your love transform me, and let others see your kindness through my life. I love you, I trust you, and I worship you. Amen.

Series Theme Verse:

John 13:35
“Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” 

Written by Lori Tuckerman, Director of Content at CedarCreek Church.