Reflecting on Love

Love and Valentine’s Day are usually the main focus in February. I’d like to give you some different thoughts on love to consider.

When we think of love, many of us think of words like fondness, passion, devotion, delight, appreciation, respect, loyalty, and commitment. Most of us desire all these things in relationship.

"The Lord appeared to him from far away. I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you." Jeremiah 31:3 ESV

In the above verse, we read that the Lord’s love is everlasting and faithful. Isn’t that what we want? We want someone who will love us forever and be faithful to the end.

So now, let’s consider another verse.

"Jesus answered him, 'Love the Lord your God with every passion of your heart, with all the energy of your being, and with every thought that is within you.’" Matthew 22:37 TPT

Isn’t this what Jesus asks us to do? Or, do we do the very thing to Him that we don’t want done to us?

“You’re cheating on God. If all you want is your own way, flirting with the world every chance you get, you end up enemies of God and his way. 

And do you suppose God doesn’t care? The proverb has it that 'he’s a fiercely jealous lover.' And what he gives in love is far better than anything else you’ll find. It’s common knowledge that 'God goes against the willful proud; God gives grace to the willing humble.' 

So let God work his will in you. Yell a loud no to the Devil and watch him flee. Say a quiet yes to God and he’ll be there in no time. Quit dabbling in sin. Purify your inner life. Quit playing the field. Hit bottom, and cry your eyes out. The fun and games are over. Get serious, really serious. Get down on your knees before the Master; it’s the only way you’ll get on your feet." James 4:4-10 MSG

You see, we could put a lot of focus on what we want for ourselves, but what about what Jesus wants from us? He already showed us a love that we will never find anywhere else by dying on the cross for our sins!

"A time to love, and a time to hate." Ecclesiastes 3:8 NKJV

It’s time to turn all our love and affection towards God. Pursue those things that will cause us to do His will wholeheartedly. Recognize the things of this world will only divide our loyalty towards God, but true love, faithfulness and commitment are to be given first and foremost to God. 

God’s love is the greatest you will ever encounter!