What Can We Learn About God’s Love?

The Department of Education’s theme is “Learning Is a Lifelong Process.” The month of February is often referred to as the month of love. As we reflect on the word love, the scripture that reflects the greatest example of love is found in St. John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” God loved mankind so much that, despite humanity’s disobedience, He still loved us enough to sacrifice His Son, Jesus Christ, to redeem us back to Himself.

So, what does love look like for us today? How can we learn more about love? Let us remember our DOE theme: Learning is a lifelong process.

God’s love shows compassion for imperfect people, and it does not cost anything. His love is not contingent upon you being perfect. In Jeremiah 3:14, God says, “Turn, O backsliding children, saith the Lord; for I am married unto you…” God’s love extends even to those we think are undeserving. God loves the sinner, but He does not endorse or encourage a sinful lifestyle.

God’s love teaches us to become more patient and kinder, and not envious. It teaches us not to boast about anything except His wonderful character, His grace, His mercy, and the blessings He bestows upon our lives daily. In other words, God’s love should keep us humble.

When we learn to love like God, we understand that love is not easily angered and does not keep a record of others’ wrongs. Love is not self-centered, but always protects, always trusts, always hopes, and always strives to do what is right for the common good of mankind, based on the Holy Scriptures. When we learn to love like God, our love will not fail. God must be the center of all that we love and all that we are in love with.

I want to leave you with words written by the Apostle Paul to the church at Ephesus in Ephesians 4:1–3: “I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”

Here is what we can learn about love: it is a lifelong process. In every relationship in our lives—spiritual, romantic, friendships, and even family—it is essential for us to be humble, patient, kind, and eager to listen. That is the love that God has shown and continues to show to us every day.

In His Service,District Elder Robert I. Thomas, Jr.

Director, Department of Education Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ of the Apostolic Faith, Inc.