Often when topics are taught pastorally, we tend to focus on aspects that will encourage people based on their needs. However, the goal of this series is to examine the attributes of God theologically. The result might be pastoral comfort and encouragement but in some cases it might be the fear of the Lord. Today we will examine the love of God and include those aspects of the love of God that require a response from us that is not necessarily comfortable. I believe that when a believer has a revelation of the love of God, it is that one attribute of God that has a profound impact on the way one goes about life. There are many things I can say to you about myself, but there are probably just a few that have great impact on how you relate to me and the course of your life. The love of God is one such attribute. When I know how much you love me, it affects my confidence levels when I ask you for something. It will influence how I react or respond to your behaviour toward me. Knowing that God loves you becomes a filter through which you interpret life events. Love is a basic need. Every human being was created to be loved and to love. Every human being has been blessed with the capacity to love and be loved. When we are not functioning in this manner there are things in us that begin to die. The starting point of living such a life is to study the love of God and then receive it aright. It is very significant.
