FEBRUARY 8 - Love That Sticks
3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 10:11–12; Acts 8
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“The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence. Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all offenses.” — Proverbs 10:11–12
“And the crowds with one accord paid attention to what was being said by Philip when they heard him and saw the signs that he did.” — Acts 8:6
“But Peter said to him, ‘May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money!’” — Acts 8:20
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You don’t have to scroll long on social media to find someone arguing, canceling, or calling someone out. The world can be loud with hate, but Proverbs 10 says that love covers offense. That doesn’t mean love ignores problems—it means it doesn’t add fuel to the fire. It looks for healing, not drama.
In Acts 8, we see two very different reactions to the good news of Jesus. The crowd listens to Philip and sees miracles—because love and truth are at work. But then Simon tries to buy the Holy Spirit like it’s a video game upgrade. Peter calls him out because God’s gifts are just that: gifts. Real love can’t be bought, forced, or faked.
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THINK ABOUT IT
1. Your Words Matter: Are your words a fountain of life like Proverbs 10:11 says? Do they build people up or tear them down? Your mouth is powerful—use it for love.
2. Check Your Motives: Simon wanted the power of God, but for the wrong reasons. Why do you follow Jesus? For what He gives—or for who He is?
3. Love Covers Offense: When someone offends or hurts you, is your first move to fire back or to forgive? Love doesn't mean pretending nothing happened—it means choosing peace over payback.
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BOTTOM LINE
God’s love transforms how we speak, act, and respond. When love leads the way, everything changes—for us and the people around us.
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PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for showing us what real love looks like—love that forgives, restores, and gives freely. Help me use my words to bring life, not hurt. Teach me to follow You with pure motives and to reflect Your love even when it’s hard. Fill me with Your Spirit so I can love like Jesus. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
