𝐇𝐎𝐖 𝐓𝐎 𝐒𝐔𝐑𝐕𝐈𝐕𝐄 𝐈𝐍 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐒𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐎𝐍 𝐎𝐅 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄 𝐁𝐘 𝐃𝐄𝐀𝐂𝐎𝐍 𝐀𝐘𝐎𝐃𝐄𝐉𝐈

𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐨𝐧 𝐀𝐲𝐨𝐝𝐞𝐣𝐢

Youth Sunday Message  

Date:23rd February 2025  

Preacher: Deacon Ayodeji  

Topic: How to Survive in the Season of Love

Text: Romans 15:5  

Introduction:  

Love is one of the most powerful forces in the world, shaping our relationships, decisions, and spiritual journeys. However, in a season where love is often misunderstood or misrepresented, many find themselves struggling—either giving too much, expecting too much, or not understanding the true essence of love. To survive and thrive in this season, we must anchor our understanding of love in God's word and apply wisdom in our interactions.  

Keys to Surviving in the Season of Love  

1. Love Yourself 

   The Bible affirms that God is love (1 John 4:8), and as His creation, we are called to embody His love. Loving oneself is the foundation for extending love to others. When we truly appreciate our worth in Christ, we can love others in a way that reflects God's heart, acknowledging their value and existence.  

2. Give Only What You Can Afford

   Many people fall into the trap of impressing others with expensive gifts or gestures they cannot sustain, leading to unnecessary burdens and expectations. Love should not be about material display but about genuine sacrifice. John 3:16 reminds us of God’s ultimate gift—His Son—not given for show but for our salvation. Before giving, we must ask ourselves: Are we replicating God's sacrificial love, or are we trying to prove something to others?  

3. Cultivate a Heart of Gratitude

   Complaints and dissatisfaction can weaken the spirit, while gratitude strengthens faith. Instead of focusing on what we lack, we should appreciate what we have. The miracle of the five loaves and two fishes teaches us that thanksgiving can turn little into abundance. A grateful heart finds joy in all circumstances, allowing love to flourish.  

4. Be Open to Correction  

   True love grows through correction and humility. Just as our initial faith journey required submission and transformation, maintaining strong relationships—both with God and with others—demands a willingness to accept faults and learn from them. The strength of our love is not in perfection but in our ability to grow through challenges.  

5. Feed on the Bread of Life  

   To survive in the season of love, we must be nourished by the bread of life—Jesus Christ. His mercy, favor, and guidance sustain us, helping us navigate relationships with wisdom and grace. In John 21:14-16, Jesus entrusted Peter with a great mission, demonstrating that love is not just about feeling but about commitment and service. Time waits for no one; just as Peter surrendered himself to God’s purpose, we must also embrace the calling to love in the way Christ intends.  

By following these principles, we can navigate the season of love with strength, wisdom, and a heart firmly rooted in God's truth. 

#𝒀𝒐𝒖𝒕𝒉𝑺𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒂𝒚𝑺𝒆𝒓𝒗𝒊𝒄𝒆𝑹𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒑

#𝒓𝒄𝒄𝒈𝒐𝒈𝒖𝒏𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒆1𝒉𝒒

#𝑶𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒉

#𝑻𝒆𝒂𝒎𝑴𝒆𝒅𝒊𝒂