READ Matthew 5
Jesus teaches on the Beatitudes.

INSIGHT
Love is the fundamental factor of all meaningful relationships. Love is an action-the action of selflessness, of esteeming others above ourselves. All interpersonal problems could be solved with a faithful, mutual expression of love. Imagine what the world would be like if everyone acted in love. No war. No divorce. No murder. No rape. No tears. Though Jesus knew that sin presently prevents perfect love, He held believers to a high standard of showing His love in this world: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).

PRAYER
Offer your praise to the Lord who loves us in spite of our sin:
I call on you, God,
because you will answer me;  
listen closely to me; hear what I say.
Display the wonders of your faithful love,  
savior of all who seek refuge  
from those who rebel against your right hand.  
Protect me as the pupil of your eye;  
hide me in the shadow of your wings
(Psalm 17:6-8).

As you seek to keep your life free from sin, pray this confession to the Lord:
Lord, who can dwell in your tent?  
Who can live on your holy mountain?  
The one who lives blamelessly, practices righteousness,
and acknowledges the truth in his heart —
who does not slander with his tongue,  
who does not harm his friend
or discredit his neighbor (Psalm 15:1-3).

Confess any sins that the Holy Spirit brings to your mind. Now pause to pray this affirmation to the Lord:
But You demonstrate Your own love toward me, in that while I was still a sinner, Christ died for me (Based on Romans 5:8).

As you make your requests known to the Lord, pray for:

• Greater gratitude for your salvation
• Our local and national leaders
• Your activities for the day
• Whatever else is on your heart

Offer this closing prayer to the Lord:
May the words of my mouth
and the meditation of my heart
be acceptable to you,  
Lord, my rock and my Redeemer
(Psalm 19:14).