In His Name Devotionals
GOD'S LOVE
In His Name Devotionals
GOD'S LOVE
“In love (God) predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will.” (Ephesians 1:4-5 NIV)
Moses told Israel that God did not choose them because of their great numbers or any inherent goodness on their part, but as an expression of God’s sovereign will and sacrificial love (Deuteronomy 7:7-8). That is true of you as well, if you are a Christian.
The word “love” in Ephesians 1:4 refers not to emotional or sentimental love, but of love that seeks God’s best for others at no cost. It is marked by sacrifices rather than selfishness—giving rather than receiving. It seeks to forgive rather than condemn—to dismiss offenses rather than count them.
Such love is epitomized in God Himself, Who loved you so much that He sacrificed His Son on your behalf as He willingly laid down His life for you (John 3:16; 15:13).
While false gods are worshiped out of fear and ignorance, the true God—your heavenly Father—has eliminated all fear so that you can confidently enter into His presence (Hebrews 10:19; 1 John 4:18). If you are Christian, a child of God, then you have “received a spirit of adoption: and can address Him as Abba! Father!” (Romans 8:15), “Abba” being the Aramaic equivalent of ‘Daddy’ or ‘Papa.’
Your Heavenly Father delights in your praise and glories in your obedience. Be a faithful child. Make this day count for Him. Live out your royal heritage. Seek His wisdom in all you do. Do to His Holy Word and follow its counsel. Demonstrate His love to others in practical ways.
