Read
1 John 4:10-11, "This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another."
Think
There is something significant about being the first person to say, "I love you" in a relationship. It is a lot riskier to be the first person than to be the person who responds! Taking the initiative to say, "I love you" leaves no doubt about how strongly the person feels.
God took the initiative to ensure we knew how much He loved us. He said, "I love you" first and sent Jesus to pave the way for a relationship with Him – even though He knew there was a risk that we would reject His love.
In the same way God took the initiative in loving us, He wants us to take the initiative in loving others. Before they earn it, and even if they don't deserve it, He wants us to risk extending our love and the love of God!
Act
Commit to praying this high-risk prayer at the beginning of the day for the next seven days: "God, please use me today to show someone your love." Then, take the initiative by encouraging someone, helping someone, or giving someone an unexpected gift. At the end of the day, write down the opportunities God gave you.
Pray
Heavenly Father, thank You for taking the initiative to love me. Help me to take the initiative to show others Your love. In Jesus' name, Amen.