The fact remains true and indisputable that God saves us by divine kindness (grace) and not by anything we do to earn that blessing (Ephesians 2:8-9).

So then what do we “do” about it?

Jesus said, “I’m giving you a new commandment: Love each other in the same way that I have loved you. Everyone will know that you are my disciples because of your love for each other”
(John 13:34-35 God’s Word).

Since Jesus orders it we can be reasonably certain that divine-like love (Greek “agape”) is not a feeling. Love acts, behaves, functions. What I feel about you has nothing to do with the command of Jesus. (The implications extend way beyond my simple point here!)

Love motivates me to defend you against abuse and gossip. Love draws me to share food, clothing and drink with those in need. Love induces me to visit in jails and tend to the sick. Love makes me obsessive about justice, fair hearings and love nauseates me in secret meetings and backroom betrayals. Love compels me to apply the divine directives in the Bible to the way I live and treat others without regard to the personal cost.

But if you do these things, and get crucified, emotionally, financially, socially or even literally how is that fair?

“God is fair. He won’t forget what you’ve done or the love you’ve shown for him. You helped his holy people, and you continue to help them. We want each of you to prove that you’re working hard so that you will remain confident until the end. Then, instead of being lazy, you will imitate those who are receiving the promises through faith and patience” (Hebrews 6:10-12 God’s Word).

Don’t be lazy. Lazy can never love like Jesus demands.

Saved by grace frees us to serve Jesus without reserve, with no thoughts of personal gain or aggrandizement, and to love to the death, like Jesus did.

Lazy will never feel that good!