Putting Into Practice: Salvation - Illustration

Imagine a young woman named Sarah, who had recently accepted Jesus as her Savior. She was filled with excitement about her new faith, but as she stepped into the world, she began to face challenges that tested her resolve. Friends mocked her newfound beliefs, and her family struggled to understand her transformation. In those moments of doubt, she remembered the words of Paul in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, where love is described as patient and kind, never envious or boastful.

Sarah realized that her faith in Christ wasn't simply a ticket to heaven; it was a call to embody that agape love—unconditional, sacrificial love—in every interaction. She began to apply this love by reaching out to her friends, not with condemnation but with kindness. When someone lashed out at her, she chose patience, responding with grace rather than defensiveness.

This wasn’t easy. Each act of love was a test of her faith, pushing her to dig deeper into God’s strength. With every small victory, she grew spiritually, feeling the Holy Spirit’s guidance empowering her.

In your own life, consider where you might be facing challenges that test your faith. How can you embody that agape love in those situations? This week, choose one person in your life where you can respond with patience, kindness, and grace. As you do, remember that each step you take in love is a testament to the salvation you’ve received and a glorious reflection of His transformative power at work within you.