We love because he first loved us. – 1 John 4:19
You have probably heard someone say, “I found God!” While you might celebrate with them in the sentiment, the opposite is more the reality. God’s loving nature is searching, reaching, extending outward toward the lost, and drawing them unto Himself. His love is FIRST love.
The gospel of Luke relates Jesus telling a story to His followers that provides a beautiful example of this love. “What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them does not leave the ninety-nine in the open country, and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbors, saying ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.’ Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance” (Luke 15:3-7).
Sheep tend to wander into life-threatening danger. Praise God that He pursues the lost, rescuing anyone who is open to following His voice and being led into His fold. God still seeks those today who are willing to be found, regardless of unlikely circumstances or perilous environments. Pray for churches across America to present the good news of God’s first love. Ask that many will respond to His voice.
Today’s Verse: 1 John 4:19
We love because he first loved us.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: Romans 5: 6-10
6 For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For one will scarcely die for a righteous person—though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die— 8 but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God. 10 For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
