Growing in HopeSample

God is Love

God is so big we can only begin to understand Him. During the upcoming weeks, we want you to begin to learn more about God and how to know God better. One of the most important things we need to understand about God is found at the end of today's Bible verse where it says, “God is love.” 

Today in our world, we have taken the word “love” and have used it carelessly. We say things like “I love pizza”, “I love that movie”, etc. Many times we view feelings, emotions, romance, sex, etc., as love. The general mentality is, “If it feels right or makes me happy, then it must be love!” As a culture, we have tried to change and twist the meaning of love. However, we humans do not define love. God does.

In this verse God has defined love as “agape” love, which is unconditional, sacrificial love. Agape love is the highest form of love.  

God loves us unconditionally and sacrificially, and He has demonstrated this agape love for us. Even when we were in open rebellion against God, He gave His only Son as the sacrifice for our sins (Romans 5:8). He did this so that we could be forgiven (Ephesians 1:7). He did this so that we could have eternal life with Him (John 3:16). He did this so that we could be adopted into His family (Ephesians 1:5). He did this because He loves us, and He loves us because He is love (1 John 4:8).

How can knowing that God is love change your life?

Prayer:
God, thank You for loving me even though I do not deserve it. Jesus, thank You for showing me love by taking my place on the cross. Teach me more about Your great love, and help me to love You, too. In Jesus’ name, Amen.