God's love Archives

March 4, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

Behold, What Manner of Love

Opening Verse

“Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.”
— 1 John 3:1 (KJV)

Introduction

The love of God is beyond human understanding. It is not a love that is earned or conditional; it is freely given. This verse calls us to pause and consider the greatness of this love. What does it mean that we are called the children of God? And why does the world not recognize us?

Devotional Story

There was a young man who had spent his entire life trying to prove himself. He thought that love had to be earned. He worked tirelessly to gain the approval of those around him—his family, his friends, even his own conscience. Yet no matter how much he did, it never felt like enough.

One day, he came across a group of people singing in a park. Their joy was contagious. He stood at a distance, watching, wondering what made them so free. An older man noticed him and approached. “Do you know why we’re singing?” he asked.

The young man shook his head.

“Because we are loved by God, not for what we’ve done, but for who He is.”

The words struck deep. The old man opened his Bible and read 1 John 3:1. “Behold what manner of love… that we should be called the sons of God!”

For the first time, the young man realized that he had been striving for something that had already been given to him. He didn’t have to prove himself. He was already loved.

What This Means

God’s love is not like the world’s love. The world accepts people based on what they do, how they look, or what they can offer. But God’s love is given freely. He calls us His children, not because we are perfect, but because of His grace.

When we accept this truth, it changes us. It sets us free from the need to seek approval from people. It gives us peace, knowing that we are already accepted in Christ. But it also means that the world will not understand us. Just as it did not understand Jesus, it will not understand those who belong to Him.

Think About This

Do you ever feel like you have to “earn” God’s love?
How does knowing you are a child of God change the way you see yourself?
If the world does not recognize you, do you still find your identity in Christ?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your great love. I cannot fully understand it, but I receive it. Help me to rest in the truth that I am Your child, not because of what I do, but because of who You are. Give me strength to walk in this identity even when the world does not understand. Let my life reflect Your love so others may see You in me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.”
— John 1:12 (KJV)

February 14, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

The Greatest Love of All

Opening Verse

“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” – John 15:13 (KJV)

Introduction

Valentine’s Day is a time when the world celebrates love. But no earthly love can compare to the love Jesus showed us. His love was not just words—it was action. He demonstrated the ultimate sacrifice, giving His life for us. On this day, while many celebrate romance, let us turn our hearts to the greatest love story ever told—the love of Christ.

Devotional Story

A young woman once found herself feeling lonely on Valentine’s Day. She scrolled through pictures of flowers, chocolates, and happy couples, feeling like she was missing out. But then she remembered a verse she had read earlier: “I have loved thee with an everlasting love.” (Jeremiah 31:3)

She closed her eyes and whispered, “Lord, remind me of Your love.” Suddenly, she felt peace wash over her. She remembered how Jesus loved the unlovable, how He healed the brokenhearted, and how He willingly gave His life so she could be free.

Instead of feeling empty, she felt full—full of the love of God, which never fades, never fails, and never ends. That night, she wrote a letter to Jesus, thanking Him for being her first and greatest love.

What This Means

Human love may fail, relationships may change, but God’s love is eternal. Jesus proved His love by giving everything for us. Whether we feel loved by others or not, we must remember: we are already deeply loved by the One who matters most.

Think About This

Do you measure love by what the world shows or by what Jesus has done?
How can you reflect Christ’s love to others today?
Are you resting in the truth that you are fully known and fully loved by God?

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for showing me the greatest love of all. Help me to never forget that Your love is unconditional, unshakable, and eternal. Let me reflect that love to others, not just on this day, but every day. In Your name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“We love him, because he first loved us.” – 1 John 4:19 (KJV)

December 7, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

God’s Daily Grace

Opening Verse

“It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.”
Lamentations 3:22-23 (KJV)

Introduction

Every new day is a gift from God, filled with His mercy and grace. No matter what yesterday held, God’s faithfulness is unchanging, and His love is fresh and ready to meet our needs today.

Devotional Story

A woman woke before sunrise, feeling the weight of the day ahead. The responsibilities of life had worn her thin, and she worried about how she could manage. As she sat quietly, she noticed the first light of dawn breaking through the horizon. In that moment, a thought stirred in her heart—a reminder that God’s mercies are as constant and fresh as the morning light.

She opened her Bible and read Lamentations 3:22-23, letting the words settle in her spirit. She realized that just as the sun rises every day without fail, God’s grace is always there, new and sufficient for every challenge. Her heart lifted as she prayed, thanking God for His faithfulness.

As the day unfolded, she noticed God’s hand in the little things—a kind word from a friend, the strength to complete her work, and the peace that came from trusting Him. She carried the promise of God’s new mercies with her and felt renewed strength to face the day.

What This Means

God’s grace is not stored up from yesterday or limited by our failures. Every morning, His mercy is new, meeting us exactly where we are and giving us what we need for the day. Like the sunrise, His faithfulness never misses a day.

Think About This

Do you start your day with an awareness of God’s fresh mercies?
How can you rely more on His strength and less on your own?

Prayer

Lord, thank You for Your grace that meets me fresh each morning. Help me to trust in Your mercies today and not carry yesterday’s burdens into this new day. Fill me with the strength and peace that only You can give. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.”
James 4:6 (KJV)

November 29, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

God Gave His Son to You!

Opening Verse

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” – John 3:16 (KJV)

Introduction

The love of God is immense and unfathomable. To demonstrate this love, God made the ultimate sacrifice by sending His Son, Jesus Christ, into the world. This act is a profound gift, showcasing His desire for humanity to have eternal life through Him.

Devotional Story

There once was a man named Peter who struggled to feel loved. Though surrounded by family and friends, he often felt empty. One day, he attended a local church where the pastor spoke on John 3:16. The words “God gave His only begotten Son” struck Peter deeply. It dawned on him that he was loved beyond measure by the Creator of the universe.

The pastor explained that Jesus came to take the punishment for our sins, offering a way to restore our relationship with God. Peter realized the weight of the gift given to him—not something earned but freely offered out of God’s boundless love. That day, Peter surrendered his heart to Jesus, and his life was transformed by the knowledge that he was cherished by God Himself.

What This Means

God’s gift of His Son is not a reflection of our worthiness but of His amazing grace. This act was not merely symbolic; it carried the weight of our sins and bridged the gap between humanity and a holy God. Jesus’ sacrifice offers hope, forgiveness, and eternal life to anyone who believes in Him.

Think About This

Have you accepted God’s gift of His Son?
How does the truth of God’s love shape your daily life and decisions?
What can you do to share this amazing gift with others?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the priceless gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Thank You for loving me even when I felt unworthy. Help me to live in the joy and assurance of Your love, and give me the courage to share this gift with others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8 (KJV)

November 17, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

God Will Help You Even When You Feel Unworthy

Opening Verse

“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8 (KJV)

Introduction

Feeling unworthy is a common struggle, but God’s love isn’t based on our perfection. His grace meets us in our mess and reminds us of His unchanging commitment to us. When guilt or shame creeps in, it’s vital to remember that His love is unconditional.

Devotional Story

A man named Peter once felt utterly unworthy. He had made mistakes that left him ashamed and isolated from his loved ones. One evening, as he sat by a quiet riverbank, he prayed a simple prayer: “God, if You’re still there for me, please let me feel it.” At that moment, a soft breeze stirred the trees, and Peter felt a deep peace wash over him—a reminder that God hadn’t left him.

Peter was reminded of the Apostle Peter in the Bible, who denied Jesus three times. Yet, Jesus didn’t cast him aside. Instead, He sought Peter out after His resurrection and reaffirmed His purpose for him, saying, “Feed my sheep” (John 21:17). Just as Jesus restored Peter, He restores us when we feel unworthy.

What This Means

Your worth isn’t determined by your past or your feelings. It’s defined by God’s love and the price Jesus paid on the cross. God uses imperfect people to fulfill His perfect plans. You don’t have to earn His help; it’s freely given.

Think About This

What mistakes or feelings of unworthiness are holding you back?
How can you trust God’s promises even when you feel distant from Him?

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for loving me even when I feel unworthy. Remind me that Your grace is sufficient and that nothing can separate me from Your love. Help me to trust in Your plan and to walk in the purpose You have for my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.” – Psalm 34:18 (KJV)

July 20, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Boldness in Prayer

Opening Verse

“Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” – Hebrews 4:16 (KJV)

Introduction

Prayer is a powerful tool given to us by God. It is our direct line to communicate with Him. However, many of us approach prayer timidly, unsure if we are worthy or if God will listen. The Bible encourages us to come boldly to God’s throne. This boldness is not about arrogance but confidence in God’s love and promises.

Devotional Story

There was a man named David who had a deep relationship with God. He faced many challenges, from confronting Goliath to fleeing from King Saul. Despite these trials, David prayed with boldness. One night, when surrounded by enemies, he cried out to God, not with fear but with trust. “O Lord, how many are my foes! Many are rising against me,” he said. Yet, he concluded, “But you, O Lord, are a shield about me, my glory, and the lifter of my head” (Psalm 3:1, 3).

David’s boldness in prayer was rooted in his understanding of God’s character. He knew that God was his protector and provider. This confidence allowed him to approach God without hesitation, even in the direst circumstances.

What This Means

When we pray boldly, we acknowledge our faith in God’s ability to answer and His desire to help us. Bold prayer is an expression of our trust in His power and love. It does not mean demanding things from God but coming to Him with the assurance that He hears us and cares for us. This kind of prayer strengthens our relationship with God and opens our hearts to His guidance and peace.

Think About This

Are you hesitant in your prayers, unsure if God will respond? Reflect on the times God has been faithful in your life. Approach Him with confidence, knowing that He invites you to come boldly. Remember, bold prayer is not about our worthiness but about God’s gracious invitation to us.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for inviting us to come boldly before Your throne. Help us to approach You with confidence, trusting in Your love and mercy. Strengthen our faith and teach us to pray with boldness, knowing that You hear us and will provide for our needs. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us.”

– 1 John 5:14 (KJV)

July 11, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

What Is Man?

Opening Verse

“What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him?” – Psalms 8:4 KJV

Introduction

Have you ever looked up at the night sky and felt small? The vastness of the universe can make us feel insignificant. Yet, God, the Creator of all, is mindful of us. This verse from Psalms 8:4 brings a profound sense of awe and humility.

Devotional Story

There was a man named David who was a shepherd. As he watched over his sheep at night, he would gaze up at the stars and marvel at the greatness of God. Despite being a king later in life, David never forgot those moments under the stars. He wrote Psalms to express his amazement at God’s attention to us.

One night, David reflected on the heavens and the moon and the stars, which God ordained. Amidst such grandeur, he wondered why God would care for humankind. It struck him deeply that the same God who created the stars cared intimately for him and every other person.

What This Means

This verse reminds us of God’s incredible love and attention. Despite the immensity of His creation, God values each one of us. He knows us individually and cares about our lives. This realization should bring comfort and a sense of worth.

Think About This

– Reflect on a time you felt small in the face of something vast. How did you feel?

– Consider how it feels knowing that the Creator of the universe is mindful of you personally.

– How can you live in a way that acknowledges and honors God’s attention to you?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for being mindful of me. Even though I am small in the grand scheme of creation, Your love and care for me are immense. Help me to always remember my worth in Your eyes and to live in a way that honors You. Amen.

Closing Verse

“For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour.” – Psalms 8:5 KJV

June 13, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Invisible Mark

Opening Verse

“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” – James 4:7 (KJV)

Introduction

Life is full of moments where we feel marked by our mistakes, insecurities, or past actions. These marks often seem more significant to us than they do to others, much like a small water spill on a t-shirt.

Devotional Story

There was once a man who felt burdened by an invisible mark. He believed that everyone around him could see his flaws and failures, even though there was no physical evidence of them. This belief made him anxious and self-conscious, impacting his daily life and relationships.

One day, after spilling water on his shirt, he noticed how quickly the wet spot dried. It was then that he realized the water spill was much like his perceived flaws—noticeable to him but insignificant and temporary in the grand scheme of things.

What This Means

Satan often tries to mark us with invisible spots, making us feel inadequate and ashamed. These marks are designed to get under our skin and hinder our progress. However, just like the water spot on the shirt, these are temporary inconveniences. They do not define us and will eventually fade away.

God, on the other hand, offers us a promise far greater than any mark Satan can impose. In Isaiah 1:18, God assures us that though our sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow. This means that God removes all blemishes and makes us spotless in His eyes. While the devil tries to remind us of our past and our marks, God promises to cleanse us completely, making us pure and new.

Think About This

Are there any ‘invisible marks’ in your life that you are allowing to cripple you?
How can you remind yourself of the temporary nature of these marks?
How does God’s promise in Isaiah 1:18 change your perspective on these marks?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, help me to see beyond the temporary marks and inconveniences that the enemy tries to use against me. Give me the strength to resist these lies and to see myself as You see me—whole, loved, and redeemed. Amen.

Closing Verse

“Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” – Isaiah 1:18 (KJV)

June 11, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

God’s Compassion

Opening Verse

“Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him. For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.”

– Psalm 103:13-14 (KJV)

Introduction

In our busy lives, we often forget the depth of God’s love for us. We face various challenges and sometimes feel alone in our struggles. Today’s verse is a powerful reminder of God’s tender compassion and understanding.

Insight and Explanation

Psalm 103:13-14 beautifully illustrates God’s fatherly compassion towards us. The verse compares God’s pity to that of a loving father who cares deeply for his children. This analogy helps us understand the nature of God’s love and empathy.

God knows our limitations and weaknesses because He created us. When the verse says, “He knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust,” it highlights God’s intimate understanding of our human condition. He recognizes that we are frail and prone to mistakes, and He doesn’t expect us to be perfect.

This realization is comforting because it assures us that God’s love is not based on our performance but on His character. His compassion is unwavering, even when we fall short. God is always ready to forgive, support, and guide us through our difficulties.

What This Means

Understanding that God views us with the compassion of a loving father can transform how we approach our challenges. It encourages us to turn to Him in times of need, knowing that He is not judging us harshly but is ready to offer His help and comfort. This perspective can bring peace and reassurance, helping us to trust in God’s care more fully.

Think About This

When you feel overwhelmed or alone, remember that God is with you. He understands your struggles and is ready to help you. Trust in His love and let Him comfort you in your time of need.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your unfailing love and compassion. Thank You for understanding my struggles and for always being there for me. Help me to remember Your love in times of trouble and to trust in Your care. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children’s children.” – Psalms 103:17 (KJV)

June 5, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Solid Rock

Opening Verse

“He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defence; I shall not be moved.” – Psalms 62:6 (KJV)

Introduction

Life is full of challenges that can wear us down. Negative emotions like anger, frustration, and disappointment can chip away at our peace and joy. However, there is a way to remain strong and unshaken, no matter what comes our way.

Devotional Story

Imagine you are a beautiful statue carved out of a single, solid rock. Over time, small but constant chipping from various tools begins to wear down your surface. These tools represent the negative influences and emotions that we allow to affect us daily—anger, frustration, and disappointments. Slowly, they erode our peace and stability.

But what if the rock is no ordinary stone? What if it is the firm foundation of God’s love and strength? When we build our lives on the solid rock of God’s truth and seek Him wholeheartedly, we become resilient. His love and power can turn any situation around, restoring what was chipped away and making us whole again.

What This Means

Allowing negative emotions to control us is like letting those small chisels continue to wear us down. However, when we turn to God and anchor ourselves in His truth, He provides the strength we need to withstand any adversity. God is our rock, our unshakable foundation. By seeking Him wholeheartedly, we ensure that we remain strong and intact, no matter the external pressures.

Think About This

What are the small things that chip away at your peace? How can you turn these over to God and trust Him to be your solid rock?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I thank You for being my rock and my salvation. Help me to stop letting negative emotions and situations chip away at my peace. I seek You wholeheartedly, trusting that You will hold me up and keep me together. Turn around any situation that threatens to break me, and let me stand firm in Your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.” – Psalms 18:2 (KJV)