S) " 19 We love, because He first loved us."
1 John 4:19 (NASB)
O) This is the BEST Christmas gift! This is especially true because I am a Gentile. I was not part of God's chosen people, the Israelites. I had no covenant, no relationship with God. But He loved me first, before I loved Him, before I loved my family, or my parents, or anyone! He loved me in the perfect definition of grace.
A) I did nothing to deserve His love. I did nothing, even, to incurr His love. It's not even like I did something, anything, that would compel Him to love me. He simply is love and I am His creation, and so He loves me. Keeping this at the forefront of my mind is crucial to erasing the false-shame associated with stumbling in sin. Keeping this in mind is vital to combating the attacks of doubt from satan. From that focus, I need to continue to love others in His name. As an extension of His love, and the manifestation of His love, I need to love others in His name, and show them mercy in His name, and grace in His name.
P) Father, thank You for this love! Words escape me because this grace is so great. Holy Spirit, remind me of this very simple, very impactful truth; remind me often. Show me opportunities, and let me take opportunities, even create them, to share Your gracious love with others. Not because they deserve it, not because they even incurr it, or inspire it, but simply because You love them, and I am Your son, so I will love them. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
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