The first characteristic of true love is humility

The first characteristic of true love is humility: the pouring of oneself down lower and lower in self-effacement and self-denial. The message of running water always is, “Go lower. Find the lowest place. That is the only way to true fulfillment.”

~~Hannah Hurnard

This morning’s prayer and meditation for Sally’s healing comes from Take Heart, Oh God: Riches from the Greatest Christian Women Writers of All Time.

Humility doesn’t come naturally. We want people to notice us admire and respect us, and to not take advantage of us. We want to be treated fairly and shown consideration. After all we do, how kind we are, how generous—it’s only fair, right?

Beloved, we’re called to something greater. We’re called to love those around us and to find our worth not in ourselves but in Jesus. The more we strive for others’ approval, the more frustrated we become. According to Hannah Hurnard, the only way to true fulfillment is to “go lower.”

What does that mean for us? It means self-denial. It means putting the interests of others before our own. It means exalting Jesus because of our love for him, and always seeking to put him first.

You show your love by pouring yourself out. That is true fulfillment.

Prayer for Meditation

Thank you that your love never fails. Help me to love others in humility.  

Scripture for Meditation

He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less. John 3:30

Music for Meditation

Come to Jesus 

If you feel led to do so, please post a note of encouragement in the comment section below, or send your note by email to PrayersForSally@gmail.com