April 19 Bible Reading Plan

God proved His love on the Cross. When Christ hung and bled, and died, it was God saying to the world, “I love you.” (1)

-Billy Graham

As men, we often feel the need to prove our strength, protect those we care about, and earn the respect of others. We all have an inner Rodney Dangerfield telling us, "I get no respect!" (2) We work and try to gain respect constantly.

We strive to be reliable, stand firm in our commitments, and love fiercely. But no matter how hard we try, there are times when we fall short. Life hits us between the eyes, and we are flat on the mat. In those moments, it's easy to feel unworthy, unloved, and distant from God.

Billy Graham's words remind us of a powerful truth: God's love isn't something we have to earn. It's a gift freely given, proven once and for all on the Cross. When Christ hung, bled, and died, it wasn't just a display of sacrifice—it was the ultimate declaration of love from God to you, a love that is unconditional and unwavering.

This love is not based on our performance, successes, or failures. It's rooted in God's character, unfailing grace, and desire to have a relationship with us. Christ didn't wait for us to clean up our act, to be good enough before He extended His love. He died for us while we were still sinners—down on the mat, defeated and broken.

God's love transforms us. This love calls us back to God when we fall into temptation or sin. This love forgives us when we fall and strengthens us to begin again.

As men, we are called to reflect this love in our lives. We should love our families, friends, and even our enemies, not because they deserve it but because God has loved us. We didn't deserve God's love, so we can't make others feel they must earn our love. We know God reached down and picked us up off the mat, and we, in turn, extend our hand to help others who have been knocked down. This kind of love is patient, kind, and selfless. It's the love that builds up rather than tears down.

This week, as we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus from the grave, conquering death and hell and reuniting us with God, we must take a moment to reflect on the love of God displayed on the Cross.

This reflection should inspire us to show the same love to those around us. Whether through an act of kindness, a word of encouragement, or simply being there for someone in need, let the love of Christ be evident in all you do.

An unbreakable man shows God's love to those around them and makes a difference in the lives of others because he knows God did it for him first.

Bibliography:

1. "Billy Graham Quotes." BrainyQuote.com. BrainyMedia Inc, 2024. 12 August 2024. https://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/billy_graham_150661

2. Witter , Brad . "Rodney Dangerfield's 'I Don't Get No Respect' Was Inspired by His Rough Childhood." Biography, 5 Feb. 2020, www.biography.com/actors/rodney-dangerfield-i-dont-get-no-respect. Accessed 11 Aug. 2024.