Love Begins with God

“Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.” — 1 John 4:7–8

Love is both a mystery and a revelation. It is not self-generated but flows from God. Indeed, the only way we can know how to love one another is by going to God, who is the author of love.

Love is revealed through the very nature of God. He sent His only Begotten Son to demonstrate the power and the lavishness of His Love (John 3:16). Through Jesus, we learn how to love, the benefits of love, the characteristics of love, and the purpose of love.

It is presumptuous to assume we can love others without following God’s blueprint for love in His word. In our humanity, our love is always self-driven, emotional, and calculating. We choose when to love, who to love, and how much to love others. We place conditions on our love. But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8).

A lamp does not create its own light; it only shines when it is connected to a power source. No matter how beautiful the lamp is, without electricity, it remains dark. In the same way, love does not begin with us; it flows through us when we are connected to God. When we stay rooted in Him, love shines naturally, illuminating our lives and the lives of those around us.

In today’s text, John reminds believers that love comes from God. Those who believe in God and want to please God are obligated to love one another. Therefore, loving others is a divine commandment; a prerequisite for a healthy relationship with God.

When we allow God’s love to settle our identity and heal our hearts, love becomes less of a struggle and more of a response. It moves us from obligation to overflow. I want you to think of this truth today: you are not responsible for manufacturing love. You are invited to remain connected to its source. As you draw closer to God, let His love fill you, steady you, and transform the way you love others.

Question for Reflection

In what ways have you been trying to generate love on your own rather than receiving it from God?

Prayer

God, thank You for being the source of true love. Teach me to draw from You daily so that love flows through my life naturally and freely. Help me to know You more deeply, that I may love more fully. Amen.