How do we encounter love? In his enlightening work, “The Five Love Languages,” Gary Chapman explains that individuals offer and receive love in distinct ways. We are most receptive to love when expressed in a manner that resonates with our own preferences.
How can we personally experience God’s love? For some, immersing themselves in scriptures where God imparts words of affirmation to His cherished children fills their hearts with His love. Another person may feel the profound presence of God’s love during their daily devotional practices. Some find solace in God’s love through receiving His blessings or recognizing the example set by Jesus in serving and meeting their needs. Then, some simply envision God the Father enveloping them in a warm and comforting embrace.
The words from Ephesians 5:1-2 in the NIV Bible encourage us to “Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”
To live in the assurance of being loved, we must fully accept our identity as “dearly loved children” of God. The foundation for living a life characterized by love begins with our connection to the source of love. We can only share love abundantly when we possess it ourselves. While it is one thing to understand intellectually that God loves us, it’s another to intentionally experience His love each day. In my own life, this occurs as I sit in my prayer chair during my morning devotion. With eyes closed, I ask my Abba Father for a loving embrace, and I bask in His affection. In my mind’s eye, I return that embrace, resulting in a truly glorious experience.
How can you make a daily practice of receiving God’s love? And how will embracing God’s love equip you to express love to others?
Let’s pray: “Father, guide me in embracing your love. May this transformation impact my life and empower me to love others genuinely and wholeheartedly.”