Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. Ephesians 5:1-2 (New International Version, NIV)

It’s always enjoyable to watch a small child try to imitate their father or mother. This passage tells that we are to be imitators of God, acting just like Him. If we’re God’s children, we should act like it. We’re to act like the Father loves us, living a life of love. We are to love others, living out the love of God.

Don’t act like you’re not loved when things go wrong. Act like Christ. He gave it all to God, and He was vindicated when God resurrected Him. He knew He was loved, even when He was being pierced. As we act like Christ, God vindicates us.

Live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself for us. Love others, even when they’re wrong. Give your life for others. Make it a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. Does it mean you literally have to die for them? Not necessarily, but you need to be willing to sacrifice your own way and your own will. Jesus gave His life to win us to God. Giving our life is how we win others to Christ. In so doing, we show that we are God’s children.

Love truly does conquer all because God’s love is self-sacrificing. It is a self-giving love. It cannot lose. It rises from the dead- undefeated. Walk in love to defeat hatred, evil, and all wrongdoing. Love always comes out the winner, and it always wins big.