Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples. John 13:34-35

If we’re being honest, our natural tendency when it comes to others is usually, After me, you first!”

Are you feeling spiritually restless? If you’re a follower of Jesus, it’s likely because you’re not pouring out as much as you’re receiving. Doing good and serving others is a healthy spiritual habit that evidences and demonstrates the impact of God’s love in our lives.

When I serve you, it means that I put your needs above mine. It’s the example that Jesus gave us; He lived His life helping, healing, serving, and sharing God’s love with people. Ultimately, Jesus gave up His life for others. Through Christ in us we can learn to love and serve just like Him.

Jesus said it this way in the Bible book of John: “Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples” (John 13:34-35).

Our lives are like streams of water–if we receive the love of God but do nothing to pass it on, we become stagnant. If we want to stay healthy, we need to keep that stream flowing.

God gave you unique gifts and talents that weren’t meant just to enrich your own life. Like a gift never unwrapped, your life is wasted if you never use your gifts to bless people. Here’s a practical way to serve: Introduce yourself to a new person in your neighborhood. Share a gift of food with them, ask if they need any help in their home and how you can pray for them.

You can develop the habit of serving. Start small but start today!

For a free Bible study on spiritual habits, go to guidelines.org/healthyhabits.