As I mentioned in my last blog, there is a severe difference between how our world defines love and how the Scriptures define love. And so I thought that this concept of love was worthy of a second look to consider how God shows His love for us.
"But God demonstrated His own love for us, in that while we were yet sinner, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8 (NASB)
There are a few things in this verse that I would note about love. The first is that love is and can be one directional. God loved something that did not love Him back. In fact, the Scriptures indicate that this is a necessity - we love Him BECAUSE He loved us. This kind of love is hard to apply - it is a supernatural love, but it is a love that we should aim for - to love others without expectation of love returned.
Secondly, love must be demonstrated. It is no good to "love" someone and not actually show this love. God demonstrated His love and so must we.
Thirdly, biblical love is sacrificial love. A love that gives itself for another. Our love must mimic this love. I must sacrifice for my wife, for my family, for my church. Love is by our own nature selfish, but this is not true love. Biblical love is unselfish and kind and ultimately sacrificial.
I think it is important to look at what the Bible says about love and pattern our love after what God says and does!
