Intimate Christ by Max Lucado

‘Live a life of love just as Christ loved us.” Ephesians 5:2

Long to be more loving? Begin by accepting your place as a dearly loved child. “You are
God’s children whom He loves, so try to be like Him. Live a life of love, just as Christ
loved us and gave Himself for us.” (Ephesians 5:1-2)

Want to learn to forgive?  Then consider how you’ve been forgiven. ‘Be kind and loving to each other, and forgive each other just as God forgave you in Christ.” (Ephesians 4:32)

Finding it hard to put others first?  Think of the way Christ put you first. “Christ Himself was like God in everything. But He did not think that being equal with God was something to be used for His own benefit.” (Philippians 2:6)

Need more patience?  Drink from the patience of God (2 Peter 3:9).  Is generosity an elusive virtue?  Then consider how generous God has been with you (Romans 5:8).  Having trouble putting up with ungrateful relatives or cranky neighbors?  God puts up with you when you act the same. “He is kind even to people who are ungrateful and full of sin.” (Luke 6:35)