Gems of Knowledge

Today’s One Year Bible Verses: Genesis 37:1-38:30, Matthew 12:22-45, Psalm16:1-11, Proverbs 3:27-32

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Loving Beyond Their Differences

Imagine how many stories in Scripture would have unfolded differently if people had loved and respected one another the way Jesus does.

God did not create us all the same—and He never intended us to be. Differences are not flaws to be corrected; they are part of God’s design. When we allow differences to become divisions, we lose sight of how Jesus loves.

In Genesis 37, Joseph’s brothers could not respect what made him different. Joseph was favored, gifted, and walked in a calling they did not understand. Instead of seeing the good in him, they allowed jealousy and resentment to grow. What began as irritation turned into hatred, and hatred led to betrayal. Their inability to love someone who was different caused deep harm—not only to Joseph, but to themselves.

We see a similar pattern in Matthew 12:22–45. Jesus heals, restores, and brings freedom—but the Pharisees cannot celebrate it. They refuse to acknowledge the good because it does not fit their expectations or religious framework. Rather than rejoicing in God’s work, they accuse Jesus and harden their hearts. Their lack of love and respect for what they did not understand blinds them to the truth standing right in front of them.

In both stories, the problem is not difference—it is the heart.

God calls us to something better. Proverbs 3:27–32 reminds us not to withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is within our power to act. It warns us against envy, strife, and choosing the ways of the violent or arrogant. Wisdom teaches us to look for what is good, to honor others, and to walk in integrity and peace.

Jesus showed us how to love beyond differences. He respected people others dismissed. He saw value where others saw inconvenience. He did not demand sameness—He offered grace.

When we choose respect over resentment and love over comparison, we reflect the heart of Christ. Differences no longer divide us; they become opportunities to practice humility, compassion, and genuine love.

Find the good in others—they were hand-created by the same Master who lovingly created you.💎

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Action (5 Minutes with God)

Take 5 minutes with God today to reflect on this message and ask Him:

• “Lord, what do You want me to know specifically about this today?”
  • Journal what He whispers by His Holy Spirit.
• Then ask Him, “Now, what do You want me to do?”
  • Journal what He whispers – then do it!

Let today be a day of open opening our selves to see and love the way He does.

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Prayer

Lord, teach me to see others the way You see them. Remove jealousy, pride, and judgment from my heart, and help me love with wisdom, humility, and grace. Shape my heart see and love others the way You do, so I will reflect You in how I treat those who are different from me. In Your mighty name I pray, even Jesus Christ. Amen.

To read more 5 Minutes with God devotionals click here.