I think the world has a real misconception when it comes to defining “love.” Most folks will tell you that love is this really “warm fuzzy” feeling you get when you’re around someone you care about. Although that is no doubt a great feeling, it probably has more to do with hormones than it does with love. As the popular Christian song puts it, “Love is a verb!” Love is something you DO, and something that you may experience being done to you. Love isn’t even necessarily enjoyable at the moment you receive it. For example, today I had to scold one of my daughters who wasn’t following directions very well. Was that love? She’d probably prefer to be showered with hugs and kisses when she disobeys, but one day she’ll learn that the discipline my wife and I show her is also love. Jesus also loves us, and will be sure to give us the discipline we need to grow and change into something He can readily use for His work. When you receive that type of love, take the time to rejoice just like you do when you receive the “warm fuzzy” kind of love from Him.
“Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent.” Jesus of Nazareth (Revelation 3:19)
In Christ,
PastorJimKilby @Kilbin8er
Jim@JamesKilby.com