In 1992, Dr. Gary Chapman wrote his now-famous book, The Five Love Languages: How to Express Heartfelt Commitment to Your Mate. The book focused on five ways people express and receive love: words of affirmation, receiving gifts, quality time, physical touch, and acts of service.
Most people find that one or two of these expressions communicate love to them more meaningfully than the others.
When we consider how God interacts with us, we discover that He continually demonstrates His love in ways that touch every area of our lives. The Bible is replete with words of affirmation. The Lord encourages us through His Word to be courageous, to trust Him, and not to be afraid. He gives us gifts beyond measure, invites us into His presence, draws us into an intimate relationship with Him, and demonstrates His love through His acts of service and sacrifice.
God is continually expressing His love toward us. His desire is that we draw near to Him and experience the fullness of that relationship. After all, true religion is not merely a collection of beliefs or practices. True religion is about relationship with God and with one another.
This brings me to the question I want us to consider: How are you displaying your love for God?
If our communication and intimacy with God are lacking, we need to recognize that the problem is not with His willingness to connect with us. God is always reaching out to us. He is always inviting us into a deeper relationship with Him.
We have a tendency to distance ourselves from that intimacy. Our carnal nature often desires the very things that draw us away from what God offers. When we wander, neglect His Word, abandon our time with Him, or allow the distractions of life to take precedence, our relationship with our Creator suffers.
Love is not simply something we receive; it is something we express.
Jesus made this clear when He said, "If you love me, keep my commandments" (John 14:15). Our love for God should be evident in our words, our time, our giving, our obedience, and our service.
So, if you are feeling separated from God, listen for His voice. Look for His goodness. Count your blessings. Spend time in His presence. Find ways to serve Him and demonstrate your love through obedience.
In doing so, you will discover that God has been and will continue to show His love for you every day.
And perhaps the more important question is not simply whether you recognize God's love for you, but whether those around you can recognize your love for Him.
With Gratitude, Pastor Jesse
