What are your non-negotiables?
Most of us have a few things we simply won’t skip, no matter how busy or stressed we are.
Maybe it’s that first cup of coffee you need in the morning just to be a functional human being. Maybe it’s having the dishes done before turning in for the night. Or always double-checking that the door is locked.
We all have daily habits so automatic we barely notice them, but we’d feel wrong without them. They’re our non-negotiables.
Jesus made love our non-negotiable. When asked for the greatest commandment, He said: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart… and love your neighbour as yourself.” (Matthew 22:37–39). Paul picked up the same theme when he wrote, “Above all, put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.” (Colossians 3:14).
“Above all” — not just when it’s convenient, or when people deserve it, but above everything. In the middle of conflict, when we’re misunderstood, during tense moments at work, or when we’re tired — love is not the cherry on top; it’s what we’re called to put on every day and in every situation.
But let’s be honest: loving is costly. Love means pausing my own plans to really listen. It means forgiving when I’d rather hold a grudge. It might mean letting go of the need to win an argument, even when I’m convinced I’m right.
The good news is, this isn’t love we have to drum up by sheer willpower. We love because He first loved us (1 John 4:19). God pours His love into our hearts through the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5). We love by drawing from the endless well of Christ’s love for us.
So when someone’s pushing your buttons, or you’re treated unfairly, or someone’s being unreasonable, or you’re just plain exhausted — remember: we have the greatest privilege and responsibility — to love.
Love in a way that echoes the One who loved us first — and still loves us now.
Grace & peace,
Andrew