Several years ago, one of my daughters had asked for a glass of coke before bed. I explained that there is no such thing as bedtime coke. She stared at me with big, confused eyes, completely unaware that my denying her something so sweet was for her good. In a way, we’re a lot like my daughter with God’s love — sometimes struggling to understand that His “no” is just as loving as His “yes.”
God’s love for us is bigger than we often realize. It isn’t based on our performance, and it doesn’t waver with our mistakes. Real love, as He defines it, is the denial of ourselves — our rights, desires, beliefs, and expectations — for the benefit of others. And He demonstrated that love perfectly through Jesus. But to live fully in that love, we first have to receive it.
Here are three ways to learn how to receive God’s love:
1. Let Go of Earning It – God’s love isn’t a prize to be won; it’s a gift freely received. Stop striving for His approval and rest in the truth that He already loves you. “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5.8).
2. Accept His Grace, Not Just His Correction – Many of us are quick to believe God is disappointed in us, but slow to believe He delights in us. His love includes both discipline and deep joy over His children. “The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing” (Zephaniah 3.17).
3. Spend Time With Him, Not Just Doing Things for Him – Love grows in relationship, not in busy work. Take time to be still and receive His love, not just serve Him out of duty. “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46.10).
This week, ask yourself: Where in my life am I resisting God’s love instead of receiving it?
As you reflect, let His love change not just how you see Him, but how you love others in return.
God bless —
Nathan
