Marie’s daily verse: I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing John 15:5).

DAILY DEVOTION, October 2, 2024

Whoever does not love does not know God because God is love. (1 John 4:8).

There are many words in Scripture defining God. John simplifies it for us – – – God is love. He loves us even though we have disobeyed Him countless times. Christ showed His love for us while we were still His enemies by going to the cross for us.

J. B. Phillips translates Romans 5:7 in this way: “And we can see that it was while we were powerless to help ourselves that Christ died for sinful men. In human experience, it is rare for one man to give his life for another, even if the latter is good, though a few have dared to do it. Yet the proof of God’s amazing love is this: that it was while we were sinners that Christ died for us. This verse from Romans is a powerful reminder of the depth of God’s love for us, even in our sinful state.

Consider this: why would anyone, especially someone as pure and righteous as Jesus, die to save a scoundrel? Yet, that is precisely what Jesus did for us. I remember feeling unworthy and undeserving of love when I was at my lowest. But then, I realized the depth of God’s love for me. In all our imperfections, we are the scoundrels for whom He willingly laid down His life. Why? Because God is love. And when we truly accept the love of God by placing our trust in Jesus, His love should naturally flow out from us. If it doesn’t, we deceive ourselves when we claim, “I know God.” This is a question we must deeply reflect upon. “God demonstrated His love for the unworthy. Do I reciprocate?”

Dear Father, I humbly ask for Your forgiveness when I fail to love those who may seem unworthy. Help me always remember the profound truth that Jesus shed His blood for me, even when I was undeserving. Grant me the grace and strength to extend this love to others, regardless of their perceived worthiness. In His name, I pray, Amen.