Daily Devotional - Growing In Grace - Week 18 - Day 117 - 4/27/26 - "Love that Leads to Purpose"

Author: Evangelist Lisa Dalton

“Love That Leads to Purpose”
Scripture: John 21:15–17

“So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs. He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep. He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.”

Devotion:
After the resurrection, Jesus meets Peter where failure once spoke the loudest. Three times Peter had denied knowing Jesus. Now, three times Jesus asks a restoring question: “Do you love Me?” Not “Why did you fail?” or “Are you sorry?”—but a question aimed at the heart.

Jesus’ focus reveals something powerful: love is the foundation of calling. Each confession of love is followed by a commission—“Feed My lambs… Take care of My sheep.” Grace does not end with forgiveness; it restores responsibility and renews purpose.

Jesus shows us that our past does not disqualify us when our hearts return to Him. He transforms failure into testimony and shame into service.

Heart Check:

• Am I letting past mistakes define my future?
• Where is Jesus inviting me to respond in love today?
• How is my love for Christ shown through care for others?

Application:
Today, hear Jesus asking you personally, “Do you love Me?”
Answer honestly—and then live it out. Love for Jesus is not proven only by words but by faithful care, service, and obedience in everyday moments. Let grace move you forward, not hold you back.

Prayer:
Jesus, thank You for meeting me with grace instead of condemnation. Restore what failure has shaken and renew my sense of purpose. Help me love You deeply and show that love through how I serve others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.