August 23. 2015: SOAP #2089

Scripture: 1John (NIV) 4:11 Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.

Observation: As I was reading this verse, my attention was drawn to one of the shortest words—the word “so.” “…since God SO loves us…” The previous verse describes that great love. “This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” It is not that Jesus died, but that the Father sent His Son to die for us. God loved us SO much!

Application: It is not that I should love God (whom I cannot see) but that I should love my brother (whom I can see.) My love for God is measured by my love for my brother. God’s love for me cost Him dearly. My love for my brother will cost me too. I may cost me putting up with small annoying habits; it may cost me my life; it may cost me anything in between.

Prayer:   Heavenly Father, Your great love for me motivated You to go to the greatest extreme to demonstrate that love. Your love reached to me, now I must let it reach through me. Love through me today. Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!