“By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and obey his commandments.” 1 John 5:2
August 28, 2026
How do we know if we are loving other believers properly? “Oh to dwell there above with the saints that we love will be glory. But to live here below with the saints that we know, that’s another story.” A bit cynical you might say, but the apostle John heads us off at the pass. Can we say we love others, but there are some we just don’t like? Here’s the truth: The sweet fruit of love for others ripens on the vine of delight in doing God’s will. Loving God is not simply an emotional or mystical experience (e.g. “God told me”). Love is taking responsibility for how we think and act according to the commands of God. Spiritually immature Christians will tend to think about God by instinct, not by revelation (Scripture). Are we one of those who attempt to interpret reality by our imagination (e.g., an imaginary conversation with God. “God wants me to break off this marriage because there is no more love.”). Fellowship with God and loving others His way involves obeying His commandments. If I love someone, I will want to please that person and do what is best for them. If we love God, we will keep His commandments. A pastor friend put it this way, “We demonstrate our love for other believers, not merely in loving them, but in doing all that God wants us to do.” “Oh loving Heavenly Father, teach me to love as you love.”
H
Reflection:
What are some of God’s commands that I can keep today?
Is there someone I can treat in a kind and patient way today?