How can believers emulate God's "wondrous love" in their daily interactions?

The Verse in Focus

“Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children, and walk in love, just as Christ also loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” (Ephesians 5:1-2)

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What Makes God’s Love Wondrous

• It originates in His own character—“God is love” (1 John 4:8).

• It is sacrificial—Jesus “gave Himself up for us.”

• It is purposeful—His love rescues and restores (Romans 5:8).

• It is steadfast—“His loving devotion endures forever” (Psalm 136).

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Living It Out: Practical Expressions of Wondrous Love

1. Speak Grace

– Choose words that build up (Ephesians 4:29).

– Be “quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger” (James 1:19).

2. Forgive Freely

– Release offenses “just as God in Christ forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32).

– Refuse to keep a running tally of wrongs (1 Corinthians 13:5).

3. Serve Sacrificially

– Look for everyday ways to “carry each other’s burdens” (Galatians 6:2).

– Meet practical needs, even when inconvenient (Luke 10:33-35).

4. Give Generously

– Share resources with cheerful hearts (2 Corinthians 9:7).

– Hospitality without grumbling shows tangible love (1 Peter 4:9).

5. Pursue People Intentionally

– Seek out the lonely, marginalized, or overlooked (Matthew 25:35-40).

– Love enemies and bless those who curse you (Luke 6:35).

6. Uphold Truth Kindly

– “Speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15).

– Correct with gentleness, aiming for restoration (Galatians 6:1).

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Heart Posture Behind the Actions

• Dependence: Abide in Christ; love flows from Him (John 15:5).

• Humility: Remember we were first loved while still sinners (Romans 5:8).

• Gratitude: Serve out of thankfulness, not mere duty (Colossians 3:17).

• Expectancy: Trust the Spirit to produce His fruit—“love, joy, peace…” (Galatians 5:22-23).

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Checking Our Progress

• Examine motives—Is Christ’s sacrifice shaping my choices?

• Notice ripple effects—Are relationships marked by peace and mutual honor?

• Stay teachable—Invite Scripture to adjust attitudes daily (Psalm 139:23-24).

By imitating the self-giving, steadfast, and purposeful love of God revealed in Christ, believers become living demonstrations of His wondrous love in every interaction.