We are reaching the end of this series considering and reflecting upon the attributes of God in order to bring us Coram Deo (in the presence of or before the face of God). The next attribute that I want to consider is what can be referred to as a communicable attribute of God. In other words, an attribute of God that we also possess (while the incommunicable attributes we do not possess). The attribute that I want to consider is the love of God.
“…God is love.”
1 John 4:8
Much ink has been spilled on this topic, especially this time of year :). However, the love of God is altogether unique. While I certainly know love–love for my wife, love for my children, love for friends, love for football, running, etc.–I cannot fully understand the love that God has for those who are His. Let me explain. What if you were to have all of your thoughts and all of your actions put on a video projector for a large audience to view? How would that make you feel? Probably not good. What if your spouse had the front row, as well as your children (if you have them)–how would they feel? Probably not good. The reality is, while we have very close relationships with our spouses, children, friends, etc., we are not so close that we are ready to completely expose to them every thought ever thought and every deed every done. And prudence would keep us from doing so as well.
However, God sees and knows all thoughts and deeds that we have ever done–and guess what, He loves us still. Is that hard to accept? For some people it is. But, we are fully known and fully loved by God. Let me say it this way, God knows us fully and loves us just the same. How?
“By this the love of God was manifested in us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world so that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.”
1 John 4:9-10
That’s it! God loves us, because we are justified (just-if-i-had never sinned)! Christ has clothed those who look to Him for salvation in His righteousness! Glory to God!
So, yes, God is love, and we know this love because of His Son Jesus Christ.
Believe it, rest in it, and remember that you are fully known by God and at the same time fully loved!
Happy Valentine’s Day!
— February 12, 2016