I was watching an interview with someone who worked with at-risk youth.

He said, “Hurt people hurt people.” He meant that if someone has been deeply hurt in their past, they often hurt other people simply because it’s what they know. Is that always the case? No. But in his experience it was often true.

As I thought about it, I realized you can apply the same logic to love.

Loved people love people.

If you’ve been really loved and guided throughout your life, it’s probably more natural for you to share love and guidance with others. Why? Because it’s what you know.

Plus, 1 John 4:10 says this: “This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” When you take seriously the sacrificial love God showed for you on the cross, you’re probably quicker to share mercy and love with others.

Here’s one of the implications. Since God takes the initiative and is quick to love us, we too can take the initiative and be quick to love others!

Right now there are people around you. And if “loved people love people,” then the love you show THEM will have a lasting impact down the line on the way they interact with others.

Your love is having an influence and is shaping the character of someone who was made to make a mark in this world. Does it seem grand? Like a high and noble calling? You better believe it!

Your love is an invisible investment in the life of someone who was born for a reason. God is preparing them for great things. And you can help.

Loved people love people.

By Matthew Ruttan