A Love Greater Than All the Others

We love summers, chocolate, our dogs, the new car, the vacation in Paris, the new hair style and jewelry – especially diamonds. In our culture, it’s very difficult to differentiate between these words, “like,” “enjoy,” and “love.” The word love, once reserved and confined to relationships, has extended its borders to include anything and everything. It was once communicated clearly and without confusion in its intent. We do not love our children the same way, or in the same manner as we love chocolate. The human interaction, the communication, the connectedness, the feelings and the care towards both are very different.

When God speaks about love, it has distinctive characteristics that are specific. According to John 3:16, “God so loved that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” His love is expressed in the exchange of giving and receiving. His, is a sacrificial gift of giving all in exchange for the ability to be believed. His capacity to bond with each of us reflects the eternal and enduring value He places upon the relationship. The phrase “The love of God so rich and pure, so measureless and strong” from the beloved hymn The Love of God, illustrates that His love is prosperous, unadulterated and refined. It always incorporates the many dimensions to include height, width, breath, length and depth, all without restrictions, containment or limitations. In analyzing the well-known children’s song Jesus Loves Me, “Jesus loves me this I know for the Bible tells me so, little ones to Him belong they are weak, but He is strong,” demonstrates a love of getting-to-know you. It delivers a strong sense of belonging and the ability to rescue the vulnerable, frail, innocent or disenfranchised. It’s a protective love that covers faults and innocence, while being somewhat paternalistic in its ability to watch over and care for loved ones.

Deuteronomy 6:5 commands a love that reciprocates, and obeys, “Thou shall love the Lord with all thy soul, heart and strength.” His love demands the active pulling of the heartstrings towards Him. It includes surrender of the will, the mind, the memory, the imagination, all emotions and the giving of one’s ability. It is a love that requires honor, submission and results in a mutually beneficially soul-tie. According to Songs of Solomon 8:6, “love is as strong as death.” His love, once welcomed by an open door, is overpowering. Once inside, it becomes irresistible; it moves without permission; and its effects are very captivating.

What is the obvious evidence that you love the Lord, and you are in love with Him? Is it visible in your communication, your interactions, your confessions, or in the amount of time spent with Him? Is your heart connected to Him? What are your feelings towards Him, and do you feel secure in His love towards you? Do you love Him, and are you in love with Him? Think on these things!