A Reflection On Loving God

When I want to draw closer to God

We often love Jesus because we ought to, not because we just can’t help ourselves. And we should love Him this way. Agape love—that unconditional, noblest form of love by which God defines Himself and the community of His believers—is the only kind of love that stands firm when circumstances shift. But we should love Him with pleasure, too. God means to be enjoyed.

What kind of love do we have for Jesus? Is it only the agape love—noble and purposeful, but sometimes lacking in the warmth of friendship? Or is it the phileo kind of love as well—an irrepressible affection and friendship for One whose Presence we actually enjoy? If we believe in Jesus—lovingly and enthusiastically—we experience the kind of love that comes from the heart of God not only because it is right, but also because it is enjoyable. Cultivate both kinds of love. Enjoy the blessing of God’s affection.

The Father himself loves you dearly because you love me and believe that I came from God.

John 16:27