Scripture:
And we know (understand, recognize, are conscious of, by observation and by experience) and believe (adhere to and put faith in and rely on) the love God cherishes for us. God is love, and he who dwells and continues in love dwells and continues in God, and God dwells and continues in him.
— 1 John 4:16 (AMPC)
Study:
We are created by God for love. Loving and being loved are what make life worth living. It gives life purpose and meaning. But if we have allowed sin and unforgiveness and the past to separate us from God’s love, it will leave us love-starved and unhappy.
Many people cannot maintain healthy, lasting relationships because either they don’t know how to receive love, or they place an unbalanced demand on others to give them what only God can give. The resulting frustration can often lead to the ruin of marriages and the suffocation of friendships.
The Bible teaches us that God loves perfectly or unconditionally. His perfect love for us is not based on our perfection. God loves us because He wants to! God is love (see 1 John 4:8). Love is Who He is. God always loves; all you have to do is receive that love and live with confidence each day knowing that His love gives our lives purpose and meaning.
Prayer of the Day:
Dear Lord Jesus, I am so thankful that You love me and that You have given me the ability to love the people around me. Give me a revelation today of Your perfect love, so that I can walk in that love, understand that love, and allow Your love to change my life. In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen!
