(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)
John 3:16 is the most recognizable verse in Western civilization today, and it’s possible it’s the most recognizable worldwide. Yet sadly, some read this verse and question, “I recognize that ‘God loved the world’…but does that mean He loved me so much…?” Have you ever wrestled with a similar question?
If you have, know that you’re not alone. Perhaps the greatest of human longings is the longing to be loved. As such, it’s fitting that many struggle, questioning whether they really are loved by God Himself.
While doubts such as these may be common, this doesn’t mean they’re healthy. Indeed, such doubts are rooted primarily in fear. Those who struggle with these kinds of thoughts have an internal fear that they’re not good enough or not worthy enough or not significant enough or not _______ enough for God to love them.
But the Gospel declares that God’s love for you really is this deep. God loved you so much, that he gave his one and only Son, so that you who believe in him will not perish but have eternal life.
READING & PRAYERS:
JOHN 3:16 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
QUESTION: Embrace a few moments of silence and listen to the whisper of God telling you how much He loves you.
DIGGING DEEPER: “It is one thing, as a child, to be told your father loves you. You believe him. You take him at his word. But it is another thing, unutterably more real, to be swept up in his embrace, to feel the warmth, to hear his beating heart within his chest, to instantly know the protective grip of his arms. It’s one thing to hear he loves you; it’s another thing to feel his love. This is the glorious work of the Spirit.”Dane Ortlund, Gentle and Lowly
What thoughts, fears, and/or concerns are trying to blockade you from receiving the love of God?
What steps may need to be taken to remove this blockade so you can freely experience and receive the love of God?
Take a Step: Practice listening to God by utilizing the One Minute Pause app at least twice a day.
PRAYER: Today, consider blocking out some extra time to receive the love of God.
(End with 1-2 minutes of silence.)
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