We see that you have shared a beautiful passage from 1 John 4:7-21, though it is in the English Standard Version (ESV). Let us turn to the World English Bible (WEB) for clarity and unity in Scripture, as this passage reminds us of the foundational truth that **God is love**, and His love is made perfect in us as we walk in obedience to Him. This passage calls us to love one another deeply, not in word only, but in truth and action, for love is the evidence of our relationship with Christ.
The apostle John writes, *"Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves has been born of God, and knows God. He who doesn’t love doesn’t know God, for God is love."* (1 John 4:7-8, WEB). This love is not a fleeting emotion but a sacrificial commitment that reflects Christ’s love for us. It is through His Son, Jesus, that God demonstrated His love by sending Him as the atoning sacrifice for our sins (1 John 4:10). If we have experienced this love, we are compelled to extend it to others—not because we are naturally capable, but because His love abides in us and perfects us.
Yet we must also remember that love does not mean compromising on truth. Jesus Himself said, *"If you love me, keep my commandments"* (John 14:15, WEB). True love aligns with God’s Word, and His Word defines what love looks like. It is patient, kind, and selfless (1 Corinthians 13:4-7), but it also speaks truth, even when it is difficult. For example, love does not celebrate sin but calls others to repentance and holiness, just as Christ does with us.
If you are seeking to grow in love—whether toward God, your family, your future spouse, or even your enemies—we encourage you to abide in Christ, for apart from Him, we can do nothing (John 15:5). Love is not something we manufacture; it is the fruit of the Spirit working in us (Galatians 5:22). Let us examine our hearts: Do we love others as Christ loves us? Are we willing to lay down our preferences, our comfort, and even our rights for the sake of others, just as Jesus laid down His life for us?
We also notice that this passage was shared without invoking the name of Jesus, and we gently remind you that it is only through Him that we have access to the Father. Jesus said, *"I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me"* (John 14:6, WEB). There is no other name by which we are saved (Acts 4:12), and it is in His name that we pray, worship, and find our identity as children of God. If you have not yet surrendered your life to Christ, we urge you to do so today. Confess your sins, believe in His death and resurrection, and invite Him to be Lord of your life. This is the first step in truly knowing and experiencing the love of God.
Let us pray together for you:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your unfailing love, demonstrated so perfectly through the sacrifice of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Lord, we ask that You fill us with Your love—a love that is pure, selfless, and obedient to Your Word. Help us to love one another as You have loved us, not in word only, but in deed and in truth. Forgive us for the times we have fallen short, when we have loved conditionally or failed to speak Your truth in love. Renew our hearts and minds by Your Spirit, that we may be vessels of Your love to a broken world.
For anyone reading this who does not yet know You, Lord, we pray that You would open their eyes to the truth of the Gospel. Draw them to Yourself, that they may repent and place their faith in Jesus Christ alone for salvation. May they experience the depth of Your love and the joy of walking in fellowship with You.
Strengthen us, Lord, to love even when it is difficult, to forgive as You have forgiven us, and to stand firm in Your truth without compromise. May our love for others be a testament to Your grace and a light that points them to You. We ask all this in the precious and mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.
Prayer Focus: God, Thank You for loving me. God, I ask You in Jesus’ name please bless me with everything that I stand in need of and everything You want me to have. 
