The Perfect Love of God

The Perfect Love of God Devotional Reading and Podcast

Many of us have a friend or family member who will make plans for a social outing but always says, “I will meet you there.” Who doesn’t look forward to the on-the-way-there chat? Truthfully, they are not interested in a close, loving relationship in which two people share their most intimate thoughts with tears or laughter. A superficial relationship always leaves at least one person with an unfulfilled void in their heart.

Thankfully, we have a loving Savior who desires that we have a loving, intimate relationship with Him. Jesus never places a limit on the time that we seek and abide in Him through prayerful communication. Our prayers whether accompanied by tears or elated joy are readily received by our Heavenly Father who provides comfort through the Holy Spirit. Imagine how wonderful God feels when we give Him praise from our hearts that are filled with gratitude.

A thriving, healthy relationship is built on love. Think about a time when you were in love, or you may still be in love, the confidence and joy of life that love provides are matchless. Over time we come to realize that our perfect love involves many adjustments.

Love Comes From God–“We love Him because He first loved us.” –1 John 4:19

When God created us in His image, we received the gifts of love, power, and a sound mind. Do not attempt to analyze your innate spiritual gifts. Think about your God-given gifts the same way you would react if you discovered that you have artistic talent. Most people would develop their talents. We grow spiritually when we intentionally commit ourselves to love His Son, Jesus.

“Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me'” (John 14:6). Building a relationship with Christ begins with a loving heart. We surrender and give ourselves to Him by renewing our covenant vow of love for Christ every day.

The difference between earthly and agape love is that God’s love never ends. His love is not based on whether we reciprocate. God gave Jesus, His Son to die for all. God loves the sinner as well as those striving to live holy. When we fully understand the love of God, we live with courage and confidence because we faithfully trust God with our lives.

“There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love.” 1 John 4:18.

Choosing God’s Promises instead of being controlled by our emotional responses allows our faith to flourish. We cannot have faith and fear, fear always cancels out our faith in God. Knowing that the spontaneous response of fear will happen when facing challenges and adversities allows us to control fear by praying a prayer of faith.

The human effort of acquiring knowledge of God’s character can only be accomplished by diligent study of the Scriptures. Without knowledge of who God is, our relationship is superficial–a stable foundation doesn’t exist.

The Outcome of Not Studying the Bible–Our love for God wavers because of our changing circumstances. One of humanity’s weaknesses is that we typically react with emotions instead of using our sound minds. Remember that an undisciplined mind cannot control an emotional response.

Without a biblical foundation, we have nothing to base our faith and trust on, which results in our emotions changing our perception of God. When all is well, we feel that God really loves us. But when we face the hardships of life, we feel that God has forsaken us.

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid of them, for the Lord your God goes with you, He will never leave you or forsake you.” –Deuteronomy 31:6

Even if we could only remember that one scriptural promise when the stormy seasons arise, the Holy Spirit would comfort us by reminding us of God’s love and power. The development of a sound mind requires faith, trust, daily praying, and consistent Bible study. As we build our relationship with Christ, we can encourage ourselves and never lose confidence and courage. If God said it, then it is guaranteed that He will do it!

Desire to begin a love relationship with Jesus? Begin with the book of John. He is described as the disciple that Jesus loved. Why? Because John had the desire for spiritual transformation–he desired to have a Christ-like character.

We are never alone. Jesus knew His disciples would need spiritual help 24/7 after He ascended to heaven following His resurrection. We have the same access to the Holy Spirit anytime from only whispering an honest prayer.

Prayer: God, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus with whom we can have a relationship. Please teach us and help us to understand Your love for us. God, we love You and ask this prayer in the Worthy name of Your Son, Jesus. Amen.

Jesus Promises Another Helper
If you love Me, keep My commandments. And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever— the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you. –John 14:15-18

“…Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine.” –Isaiah 43:1

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