His Initiating Love

His Initiating Love…

Good morning. Today, let’s explore 1 John 4:19 and the beautiful truth of God’s initiating love.

We love because he first loved us.
1 John 4:19

In a world that often feels conditional, here’s a truth that can transform our hearts: God’s love for us isn’t a response to our actions. It’s the very reason we can love at all.

Think about that for a moment. Before you took your first breath, before you did anything right or wrong, God loved you. His love isn’t earned; it’s freely given. It’s not a reaction to our goodness but the source of any good in us.

This verse reminds us that our capacity to love – whether it’s loving God, others, or even ourselves – stems from His initial love for us. It’s like a small flame lit from an eternal fire.

When we grasp this, it changes everything. Our love becomes less about striving and more about responding. We love not to gain approval, but because we’re already approved. We love not out of duty, but out of the overflow of being loved.

Today, let this truth sink in: You are loved, unconditionally, and eternally. And that love empowers you to love others in return.

How does knowing God loved you first change your perspective on love?

In what ways can you reflect God’s initiating love to others today?

Dear Lord, Thank you for loving me unconditionally. Long before, I even knew what love was. Your love is a precious gift, and sometimes I forget to open it fully. Today, I want to receive Your love with open arms and let it change me from the inside out. Fill my heart with Your love so that it overflows into my words, my actions, and my every thought. Help me to love others like you love me – patiently, kindly, and always ready to forgive. Let your love shine through me and touch everyone I meet today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

God’s love is not a response to your love; your love is a response to His.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always

Ed 🙏🏼