The Love of God in Christ

For the last several weeks I have been sharing with you character sketches of Christian women known in Church history as Covenanters. These ladies were adventurous, courageous, bold in their faith and loyal to each other. These are character traits which we can all pray and work to have; but I think there is one essential ingredient to developing a godly character which we ought not to miss, and this is the love of God in Christ in our hearts.

Matthew Henry writes this in his “Commentary of the Whole Bible” for 1 John, chapter 4, verses 14 through 21:

“The love of God in Christ, in the hearts of Christians from the Spirit of adoption, is the great proof of conversion. This must be tried by its effects on their temper, and their conduct to their brethren. If a man professes to love God, and yet indulges anger or revenge, or shows a selfish disposition, he gives his profession the lie. But if it is plain that our natural enmity is changed into affection and gratitude, let us bless the name of our God for this seal and earnest of eternal happiness. Then we differ from the false professors, who pretend to love God, whom they have not seen, yet hate their brethren, whom they have seen.”

Scripture tells us:

“Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing. For Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit; let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it.” (1 Peter 3:8-11 ESV)

Friend, have you been treating others with patience, kindness, humility and love? Or have you been indulging anger, seeking revenge, and showing a selfish disposition? If so, I beg you to take some time right now to search your heart, and seek God on this matter. Do not hesitate, but run to Him right now with a heart of full of sorrow and repentance. Ask Him to fill your heart with the love of God in Christ, and to make you a trophy of His grace.

Your only hope for a truly changed heart and life is found in Jesus Christ alone. You cannot imitate true Christian love and you cannot make yourself acceptable in God’s sight. You must become a new creation in Christ, and this is a work of grace which can only be accomplished by the regenerating power of the Holy Spirit.

“And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” (Revelation 22: 17 – KJV)

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