Day 37 | 1 John 4:1–5:21

Read 1 John 4:1–5:21

One thing Christians and non-Christians alike can agree on is that we want to be loved. One thing we may not see eye-to-eye on, however, is how we would define love. Some think it’s just doing nice things for someone, making them feel good, or giving them what they want. John gives us a completely different definition for love, though.

John states unequivocally that “God is love” (4:8). That must mean that in order for us to define love, it’s necessary for us to know and understand God, at least in part. What are some of the things John tells us about God? He’s sacrificial, giving us His son so we could have life (4:9–10). He’s steadfast and faithful, promising to stick with us and provide what we need (4:12–15). In his Gospel, John also shows us the humility of God, because He came to earth to live with us, and that He’s gracious, not coming to us to condemn us, but to save us (John 1:14; 3:17). And that’s only the start! We have the rest of Scripture we can turn to, because God has revealed Himself to us in His Word.

Today, when you’re trying to figure out how to love your neighbor, or your best friend, or your parents—or even God Himself—ask yourself how much your behavior looks like God. The more you start to reflect His image, the closer you’ll know you’re getting to truly loving the people around you.

Begin praying with Psalm 63:3:
“My lips will glorify you
because your faithful love is better than life.”