”Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. He who does not love does not know God, for God is love. In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” John 4:7-11
Love. Arguably the most used and misused word in any language. The theme of countless books, movies, and song lyrics. The word most are longing to hear, but many are reticent to speak. The word, when combined with the personal pronouns “I” and “you” can ignite relationships, sustain families, and strengthen marriages. The word representative of God Himself – patient, kind, forgiving, unfailing – God is Love.
John tells us that the essence of Godly love for us is this: “Not that we loved God, but that He loved us!” Wow. Think about that for a minute. Ponder the truth of what the scripture teaches here. He loved, loves, and will love you - period! Nothing can change that. Nothing will stop it. It’s not partial, it’s complete. It’s not temporary, it’s eternal. God loves YOU! In a time in history when we as a culture are fearful, isolated, and lonely … embrace His Love! Hold on to it tight. Let it penetrate and minister to your heart, soul, and spirit today. Let your mind, will and emotions be swept up in this truth. God loves YOU!
Again, “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. He who does not love does not know God, for God is love.” We are called by God, to not only embrace His love for us, but BECAUSE of His love for us, BECAUSE of His very nature, we are called to love one another. In the loneliness and isolation of a pandemic ... love one another! In the depths of despair and loss … love one another! In the daily challenges and frustrations of life … love one another! For the sake of our relationships, families, and marriages … love one another! Love that does not depend on how we feel – but is truth proven by HIS action. We cannot earn it, we don’t deserve it, yet … “He loved us and sent His Son (Jesus Christ) to be the propitiation (the satisfactory substitute) for our sins.” Beloved, if God so loved US, WE also MUST love one another.
Let’s pray – Lord, as we approach the month of February and the emphasis that our culture places on this word, please Lord, conform US more today to Your image. Pour out Your love for those around us through the Holy Spirit. Make us lovers like You – patient, kind, forgiving, and unfailing, … because YOU ARE LOVE. in Jesus name we pray, amen.
In His Love,
Dion Elmore
Vice President, National Day of Prayer Task Force