1 John 4:16 And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them. [NIVUK]
What does it mean to know God loves us?
Brennan Manning once said, “Did you know I loved you?” is the most important question Jesus will ask us when we get to heaven. Joy Clarkson writes we can’t be truly happy until we know we are loved. Countless songs have been written, from “Jesus Loves Me” to Crowder’s “How He Loves” about God’s love for his children. And yet, for many, God’s love for them, personally, remains elusive.
I think he wants us to help them know the truth.
I once had a student who struggled with giving her speech on “Why I Am a Christian.” She felt like other students were critical of her reasons for following Jesus. She misinterpreted a few side glances and whispers as rejection. It made her so nervous she had a near panic attack (actually, not an uncommon reaction in Public Speaking).
When I talked to her about it, she told me she’d been bullied for her faith in high school, a factor that no doubt, contributed to her misperceptions. I didn’t know what to say, but the passage from 1 John 4 came to mind. So I prayed, Lord, I’m relying on your love to help this hurting student. I couldn’t rely on my experience or theological insights. I had to go straight to a source stronger than her fears: God’s love for her.
Knowing how much God loved her gave me the confidence to ask him to reveal that love to her. And he did. As we prayed together, I sensed deep waves of compassion for her. Compassion that overshadows insecurities, doubts and misperceptions.
So I want to encourage you. The next time you face an overwhelming situation, rely on knowing God loves you. If a hurting friend asks you for help, rely on God’s love for an answer. I believe Manning’s speculation not only rings true, but it can turn our approach to life completely upside down.
Nothing is more unwavering, and nothing more powerful, than knowing and relying on the love of God. So what does it mean to know this?
Everything. It means everything.