“Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.” – 1 Peter 4:8

As Christians we are called to love others and to live by God’s example. Here are ten ways to love others and shine God’s light.

We should give freely, without expecting anything in return. Give out of the kindness of your heart. Be generous to others because you want to, because you care for them. Do not expect anything in return.

“All day long he craves for more, but the righteous give without sparing.” - Proverbs 21:26

Trust with all your heart. Do not doubt. Have faith in everything that you do. Trust God in all circumstances. He has a plan and will see it through.

“Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.” – 1 Corinthians 13:7

We are all human and we all make mistakes. It is important to forgive one another. When you forgive, forgive fully. Do not forgive half-heartedly with wanting to punish someone. Forgive them and let it go.

“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” – Colossians 3:13-14

When others are speaking, listen with intent. Do not just listen to answer, but listen to help one another. Listen to help others with their problems. Be there for the people that you care about. Do not interrupt others by answering. Listen to what they have to say and offer advice, do not give it when it is not asked for.

“Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions.” – Proverbs 18:2

When you are given tasks, do not grumble or moan, put on a smile and do your task with gratitude and kindness. Complain less and be more thankful and appreciative of the tasks you are given, no matter the situation. The more thankful and positive you are, the more enjoyable the task will be.

“Do everything without grumbling or arguing” – Philippians 2:14

When having a conversation with others on a topic that you do not necessarily agree with, answer with kindness and respect. Do not raise your voice or get upset with the other person. Answer with respect and resolve the issue in a civil manner.

“Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting, with strife.” – Proverbs 17:1

When you make a promise, be sure to keep it. Do the things that you say you will. Make sure that your actions match your words. If your actions match your words, the people around you will trust you more and it will bring you closer to the people in your life.

“My covenant will I not break, nor alter the thing that is gone out of my lips” – Psalm 89:34

When you get upset, do not act out of anger. Take a deep breath and a step back. Speak kindly and do not accuse one another. Resolve the issue and be sure to communicate well.

“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,” – James 1:19

Have patience with others. When things get frustrating, have patience and understanding. Act out of love and kindness. Do to others as you would want them to do to you.

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.” – 1 Corinthians 13:4

When you are angry or upset with someone, let it go. If the situation has past, then leave it in the past. Live in the present and do not hold a grudge against others. Love and appreciate them and do not hold them to their mistakes.

“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:31-32

Love is patient and kind. Do not hold grudges against others. Love is a choice that you can make every single day. Choose love and happiness and shine God’s light to others.

Grand Canyon University is committed to following the Lord in all circumstances. If you would like to learn more about GCU’s Christian identity and heritage or would like to read more devotionals please visit our website and check out the GCU Blog.