“Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.” (1 John 4:7)

Sometimes it feels like news updates are coming every few minutes. When we give so much of our attention to events beyond our control, we can lose sight of the power that we do still have. We can choose how we respond to our circumstances. And perhaps even more important, even in the midst of those circumstances, we can choose how we treat others.

Recently we reminded you about the time that Jesus’ disciples were afraid their boat might sink, but then He calmed the storm. Just like Jesus’ disciples, we’re all in the same boat with Jesus — but we’re also in it with each other. And we can choose to encourage one another, to support each other, to love each other, and to point each other back to Jesus.

“Love each other, just as I have loved you. If you love each other, everyone will know that you are my disciples.” (John 13:34-35)

Here Are 4 Ways We Can Choose Love

1. Encourage one another - We live in such an incredible time! Even when we can’t be physically present with one another, we can still call, text, email, connect on social media, attend church online, and more. “Do not withhold good from those who deserve it when it’s in your power to help them.” (Proverbs 3:27)
2. Support each other - Some of the most meaningful things we can do are simple and practical. Check in with your neighbors and ask how they’re doing. Share whatever you have. Drop off a meal for someone who can’t get out. Pay for the person behind you in a shop. Send a gift to a friend. “ …our love should not be only words and talk. No, our love must be real. We must show our love by the things we do.” (1 John 3:18)
3. Love each other - Jesus said that loving your neighbor was the second most important commandment. And in the parable of the Good Samaritan, He explained what He meant by that word, “neighbor.” Paul even suggested we turn loving each other into a competition! “Try to outdo yourselves in respect and honor of one another.” (Romans 12:10) 
4. Point each other to Jesus - It’s Jesus who calms our storms. But it’s up to us to remind each other of God’s promises. And to pray for one another.

Just remember: No matter what we may be going through, we’re all in it together. We all live on the same planet. We all breathe the same air. Jesus said we would have troubles in this life (John 16:33). But He gave us His Spirit (John 14:16-17). And he gave us each other (Gal 4:4-6).