“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God. And everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love.” – 1 John 4:7-8

Here’s a challenging truth: if we say we love God but aren’t inclined to be in His Word, understand His commands, and obey them with joy, it’s difficult to actually say we really love God. The question isn’t just “Do you believe in God?” but “Do you have a belief that loves?” Love for God shows itself in a love for His commands, not as burdens, but as the best way to live. When you truly love someone, you want to know what matters to them, what they desire, what brings them joy. The same is true with God.

But this isn’t meant to discourage you when you fall short. Instead, it should cause you to lean even more into God’s grace. The Apostle Paul prayed that believers’ love would increase more and more. That’s our prayer too, that today we would love God and people more than we did a year ago, and that tomorrow we’d love even more than today. There’s mercy and grace as we grow in this love. God isn’t standing over you with a clipboard marking your failures; He’s inviting you into a transforming friendship where His love changes you from the inside out.

Reflect:

• Do you view God’s commands as burdens or as loving guidance for the best way to live?
• How have you experienced growth in your love for God over the past year?
• Pray for God to increase your love for Him and for others. Ask Him to help you see His commands as expressions of His love rather than restrictions.