He Loved First
1 John 4:19
When our boys were young, we would sit on the couch and read books together. It was a favorite time for cuddling. One cherished memory is the day one of the boys said, “Mommy, I love you, and someday, I’m going to marry you.” Smiles and hugs followed. I replied, “I’m already married to Daddy. Someday, you’ll find a special woman to love and marry.”
We are meant to love and be loved. God’s design and plan began in the garden when He created man and woman. His command was to be fruitful and multiply—family. As children grow up, they leave to start their lives with a spouse and a new home.
We love each other because He loved us first.
- 1 John 4:19
God is love. He loved us first and shows His love to us every day. Too often, we overlook the simple beauty and the magnificent display of God’s love surrounding us.
His love can be found in the morning sky, among the trees, grass, flowers, and rocks. We are greeted by smiles and the cry of a baby yearning to be held. Birds chirp as people walk by on their way to the next meeting. Caught in the busyness of life, we must embrace this truth: God loves you and me.
Our primary focus is to love the Lord wholeheartedly and with all our being. We will grow and mature in this love, even as we struggle with our old sinful nature. Friends, God is pleased to receive our adoration, affection, and attention.
Jesus answered, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind. Love your neighbor as yourself.”
- Luke 10:27
Jesus’ answer emphasizes the importance of loving the Lord and states that we should love our neighbors, too. Notice Jesus's keen insight here: “as yourself.” We do love ourselves. We check our reflections in the mirror, comb our hair, brush our teeth, and wash our faces. The first person we notice in a picture is ourselves. Try it; it’s true!
God loved us first. He has demonstrated His love in many ways, but the most significant example is the gift of His Son. Jesus laid down His life to pay the penalty for our sins. This is God’s gift of love.
Head to Heart
He loved first. Have you received Jesus—God’s gift of love?
Love each other. How do we love others?
And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works.
- Hebrews 10:24 (ESV)
The author of Hebrews directs our thoughts and attention toward action. He says, “Stir up love.” What does this mean? He wants us to fan the flames of love and good works. You need a spark to ignite the fire.
We can genuinely smile, speak kind words, and act politely when interacting with others. For those with whom we have a deeper friendship, we can send a written note of appreciation, offer quality time, or give a small gift. These simple gestures can fan the flames of love for each other.
Ask the Lord to help you stir up love and good works. Happy Valentine’s Day!
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