Introductory Thoughts
The common misconception concerning love is that it simply involves an emotion felt for those for whom we care. Although love is associated with our emotions, love is, in reality, much deeper than an emotion. It is first and foremost a choice that we consciously make. When God commanded His people to love Him, He was not asking them to feel an emotion, but rather, to choose to care for Him. In like manner, when the Lord commanded husbands to love their wives (Ephesians 5:25), He was not asking merely for an emotional attachment, but something much deeper and far greater. In fact, love is something that can be taught and learned. In Titus 2:4, the older women are to teach the younger women to love their husbands and children. Therefore, when God asks us to love, He is asking us to make a choice to love others regardless of our swinging moods or wavering feelings. Love is a choice to make and a decision to do what God has directed His children to do.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): Read Luke 5:1-6. Peter fished all night and caught nothing. He was tired and didn't want to fish anymore. When Jesus told him to go out again, read Peter's answer (Luke 5:5). Peter chose to obey though he really did not desire to do it. This is true love (John 14:15).
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(For everyone): If love is a choice, what does that suggest about the phrase falling in love? How does this also show the error of statements such as, we just dont love each other anymore? People choose either to love or withhold love, but rest assured, it is a choice.
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How does the fact that love is a choice change our concept of loving the Lord? How does that same fact demonstrate the greatness of Gods love for man?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to teach you how to love Him.
- Ask God to help you gain a deeper understanding of biblical love.
Song
MY JESUS, I LOVE THEE
