True Love: How Sincere is Your Love of God?
“Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity.” Ephesians 6:24
Have you ever noticed how some people just get overlooked by the world because they’re shy, quiet, and seem to fade into the background while the rest of the world stands out with its noise, activity, and prominence? Yet some of those people are the wisest, kindest, most significant people in the grand scheme of things. Oh, if only they would be noticed! Such is the case, I believe, with certain Bible verses. How many times have I hurried past powerful verses because I’m in a rush to get to the verses that are more obvious. Despite how deep and how often I dig into God’s Word, I had not once noticed Ephesians 6:24 and its vitally important message about love.
Paul the apostle was essentially blessing the readers of his epistle, or letter, with God’s grace. To whom was he writing? Saints, or believers in Christ as Lord. To whom was he specifically addressing with his blessing of grace? To those who believe in and love Christ. But wait. He said more, didn’t he? He said to those who love the Lord IN SINCERITY. What’s the big deal, right? Why didn’t he just leave it at those who love the Lord? Perhaps because countless people SAY they love the Lord but don’t truly love Him. True love of God is demonstrated in words, in actions – in obedience (John 14:23)! Sincere love is manifested in studying His Word and living according to His ways rather than our own!
How many of us expect to receive God’s promises and blessings, including grace, while we profess to love Him but have our hearts and backs turned in the other direction? Sincere love of God isn’t a bunch of frilly words and trotting off to church on Sundays. It’s a commitment and lifestyle of loving and following Him and His ways. God’s number one command is to love Him with all our hearts, minds, souls, and strength (Luke 10:27). Notice it doesn’t say mouths. He wants us to love Him sincerely – with our very lives!
Do you profess to love the Lord? Are your heart and life sincerely committed to Him? Is your lifestyle living proof?