Saturday, September 12, 2026

As we come to the close of FOR, take a moment to reflect.

Over the past few weeks, we've explored what it means to live for something bigger than ourselves and how following Jesus changes what and who we're for.

We started with “FOR better,” looking at what healthy spiritual growth can look like. God loves us exactly where we are, but he loves us too much to leave us there.

Then we talked about being “FOR each other.” Following Jesus is not meant to be a solo journey. We're called to make time for one another, encourage one another, carry one another's burdens, and create space for meaningful community.

From there, we looked beyond our circles and explored living “FOR one more,” remembering that every person matters to God, including the person right in front of us.

Then we widened the lens even further and explored how we could live “FOR our cities.” God hasn't called us to huddle together and escape the world around us. He has placed us where we are on purpose and called us to seek the good of our city.

And finally, we've explored what it means to live “FOR generosity.” Generosity isn't about giving because we have more than enough. We give because we've already been given so much.

Maybe your answer to "I'm living for ______" has changed throughout this series. Maybe it hasn't.

Either way, take a moment to consider the bigger picture, because ultimately, we're invited to live and show 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 say the world would know we belong to him by how much we know, how loudly we speak, or how clearly we can explain what we're against. He said they would know us by our love.

So as this series comes to a close, don't let FOR be something you heard about. Let it become a question you carry with you:

What am I living for, and does the way I'm living point people toward Jesus?

Because when we live FOR something bigger than ourselves, we don't just change the way we see the world.

We begin to change the world around us.

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. 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.