Tag: feature

By Stephen Campbell

What does a caterpillar think when it sees a butterfly? We might imagine that the caterpillar can’t wait to get its wings! For that to happen, there is an amazing process of change. Through a quiet, private time of development, an earth-bound crawler becomes a beautiful, independent, free-flying creature. This natural process is an excellent metaphor for the development which every Christian ought to experience as we move out of childhood, through our teen years and into adulthood. It is challenging to take on new responsibilities and see the world through more mature eyes, recognizing the reality of life’s complications and the world’s evils. But where there are challenges, there are opportunities! The Bible presents very helpful guidelines about these aspects of life as we grow and mature.

A Moral Contest 
One of the most significant principles spreads itself like a shade tree over much of our Christian lives. Hebrews 5:14 defines mature Christians this way: “those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil” (NKJV). This type of exercise refers to intense, dedicated athletic training. Athletes who participate in competition will rearrange their entire lives in order to compete successfully. Christians should anticipate a moral contest of even greater intensity, and therefore we need to train our senses to determine what is good. We do not define what is good because God has done that in His Word; but we must discern what is good, applying His Word to our circumstances and beliefs about life. This is a Spirit-guided habit of mind as we learn to evaluate the options we face. Some alternatives are truly evil, and some are inherently good. Other choices may simply be a waste of time since even certain activities that are acceptable in themselves can become a weight on our spiritual lives (1 Cor. 6:12, 10:23).

Notice how our verse in Hebrews 5 emphasizes that this discernment develops only through frequent use. Christians who merely float with the current of life, accepting what comes without ever flexing this muscle of spiritual analysis, will never advance to maturity. This happens often, unfortunately, and many Christians reach older ages physically without developing at the same pace spiritually. It is healthy for young Christians to resolve, or deliberately decide, never to become lazy, indifferent middle-aged Christians. God will always provide guidance for that kind of determination. The teenager Daniel purposed in his heart to follow God’s Word, and as a result God established Daniel’s service into his old age (Dan. 1:8,17,21). Even though Daniel was immersed in Babylonian culture in many ways, he knew how to identify and avoid the things that were sinful.

Connected with this habit of discernment is the reality that the world is always changing. Every generation of Christians will be confronted with obstacles that the previous generation did not experience in the same way. Careers change, technology develops, cultural norms shift and morality is redefined. Some of these alterations are not bad, just different; but others actually attack the underpinnings of the Christian faith. As we develop Christian maturity we learn to make distinctions between the changes.

The apostle Paul wrote to Timothy about this process in 2 Timothy 3:10-17. Timothy had already received good teaching from Paul and others, which formed his foundation. However, because evil would continue to advance, Timothy had to understand how to continue in what he had learned (vv.13-14). Every believer needs to develop a Christian perspective that properly applies the Scriptures to new situations. It is a process of continual renewal that identifies what those biblical principles mean in the contemporary world.

Growth Areas 
Among all the experiences of the Christian life, this aspect of moral development is perhaps the most essential. It starts with the smallest of decisions, such as being honest and becoming known as a person of integrity. Keep your promises; be a dependable worker; avoid impure conversations and flee sexual temptations. Just as you might be diligent in a habit of physical exercise, remember that daily spiritual exercise is the only way to train your senses so they can discern good and evil.

Other aspects of maturity grow out of this moral development. Here are a few of them:

• Develop financially. Learn to manage money, saving it wisely and spending it well. Don’t buy junk or be tempted by luxury. Realize that cars, apartments and adult responsibilities are a constant money drain; prepare for those future demands. Learn to be generous when others have needs. Many sorrows come to those who hoard money because they love the idea of being rich (1 Tim. 6:9-10); but the Lord blesses those who have learned to be generous stewards of what He has provided (Prov. 11:25).
• Develop relationally. Be kind. Learn to make conversation with both friends and strangers. Show interest in others by asking about their lives rather than talking about yourself (Phil. 2:4). Compliment and thank those who accomplish good things. Learn to handle conflicts by addressing rather than ignoring them. Furthermore, if the Lord brings a potential spouse into your life, identify important spiritual qualities before seeking to deepen that relationship. If the Lord continues to guide you together, don’t shy away from marriage (Prov. 18:22).
• Develop physically. Take care of your health. Eat well and stay in good physical condition. Accept the body God gave you, but don’t make excuses that lead to bad physical habits. Understand that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, and therefore avoid drunkenness and other influences which damage that dwelling place (Eph. 5:18). Stay physically active; laziness is a habit that feeds on itself and leads only to ruin (Prov. 24:30-34).
• Develop spiritually. This is the culmination of mature development. Learn the major doctrines of the Bible and their relevance to daily life. Recognize that the Scriptures are as important to the spirit as milk and food are to the body. Distinguish between living by faith and living by sight, and obey God’s instructions despite outside influences. Seek to know your spiritual gift; then stir it up so you become a giver in the body of Christ, not just a receiver. Whether you are a man or a woman, learn what it means to be a spiritual priest, cultivating a spirit of worship as you fulfill all roles the Lord has given you (1 Pet. 2:5-9).

As you develop in all these aspects of life it may surprise you that many of your Christian friends might be unwilling to travel that road with you. They may even disapprove of your focus and determination. In reality it has always been that way. For instance, the apostle Paul deeply appreciated Timothy’s companionship in service, but he added that very few people had matured to the extent of this younger believer. To paraphrase Paul’s words in Philippians 2:19-21, “Timothy truly cares about the Lord’s people, but it seems at though no one else does. Everyone else pays more attention to their own concerns than to the interests of Christ Jesus!” It may sometimes seem to you that remaining devoted to the Lord is a lonely life, but be encouraged! When your ordinary life is yielded to Him, He will accomplish lasting results through you in the lives of others.

A Note For Teachers 
It would be good at this point to add a few encouragements for older Christians too. While those who are older often have a genuine desire to assist younger believers, we often act as if we believe they are second-class Christians. For example, have you ever heard the sentence, “Here is a point I would like to make for the young people”? Although well-intentioned, statements like this imply that teenagers and college students are somewhat immature and therefore have probably not been able to understand the previous comments – but now, at last, here is a thought that is finally simple enough for them. That is actually rather demeaning, isn’t it? On the other hand, if the previous comments have indeed been obscure and hard to understand, it might surprise the speaker to know that the young people are not the only ones who have been waiting for clearer teaching!

Along the same lines, it is helpful to recognize that the principles which benefit young people are important for all Christians. When believers of different ages are assembled together to hear God’s Word, those who teach the Scriptures would do well to avoid preaching specifically to the young people. If a point is presented in the context of teenagers and their decisions, it should also be specifically applied to other ages and stages of life. A few Bible passages do indeed emphasize younger believers, but for the most part all Christians need the same spiritual guidelines. Remember that lambs primarily need food, while it is the mature sheep who need oversight and guidance from the shepherd (Jn. 21:15-16). Adults have many more opportunities to go astray! Let’s not focus our teaching on young people in a style that implies we can barely trust them to make spiritual decisions. In fact, it is more likely that older brothers and sisters need to be reminded to live not for this world but for the world that is to come.

Moreover, those who speak to young people often review their own experiences when they were the same age. While this can be helpful, it is important to remember that every generation faces unique circumstances. Categories of temptation and sin are always the same; but the world which teenagers, university students and young adults inhabit is not the world of 50 years ago or even 15 years ago. Therefore it is important to acknowledge that the spirit of the age has changed; things previously considered shameful are celebrated today, and vice versa. Recognize that young people have to apply the Scriptures in their world, not ours. However, it’s beautiful to offer the eternal Word of God as the changeless foundation for every generation! What a privilege to establish students and twenty-somethings in their faith and in “the present truth” which is relevant in every era (2 Pet. 1:12).

The Biblical Worldview 
Returning to our encouragement for students and young adults, it is a powerful thing to recognize that God is at work in your life at every age. Reviewing the aspects of moral, physical and spiritual development, we see clearly that not one of them requires a special calling. Instead, all of them are simply normal aspects of life that have been brought under the authority of Christ – and that is a lifestyle which every believer can pursue.

No caterpillar ever becomes ready in an instant for butterfly wings. Metamorphosis is required, and it’s a transformative process that initiates a complete turnabout in focus, habit and lifestyle. But that transformation is precisely the proof that God is at work! When the butterfly emerges it is no longer a creeper upon the earth, rather it is a creature of the sky. In the same way, with the help of the Lord, every Christian who develops a biblical perspective of the world will live for God effectively and powerfully in daily life. May the Lord guide your daily activities as you seek Him.

By Richard Barnett

The Bible prophesied that “knowledge shall be increased” (Dan. 12:4 KJV). This truth is evident in the large numbers – more than ever before – of colleges, universities and other institutions for learning as well as in the millions of students, young and old, enrolled in various programs of study.

Congratulations, if you are getting ready to enter high school or pursue a post-secondary education. I cannot stress enough the value of a good education, especially in a very competitive work environment where the most qualified get the best jobs. Your decision to go to college or university may have been influenced by your parents who want to see you excel academically, or it may be tied to a goal you have set for yourself. Skills are in demand, and those with a preferred college diploma can usually expect their earning capability to increase significantly. There are, however, three areas in which you should be on guard, whether you are in high school, trade school, college or university.

Faith 
“But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of.” —2 Timothy 3:14

Many college students who grew up in Christian homes and went to Sunday school and church meetings will stop gathering with believers. Some even abandon their Christian beliefs. This alarming fact may be the result of the atheistic and philosophic teachings of some professors, which can only be resisted by being solidly grounded in the Christian faith. One’s departure may also be the result of pressure to be accepted by fellow-students or an act of rebellion against parents.

On the other hand, a Christian upbringing has helped many students maintain their faith while furthering their education. Solomon was the wisest man who ever lived, with the exception of the Lord Jesus, and his advice to you as a young man or woman is: “Hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother” (Prov. 1:8). Young Timothy had been taught the Holy Scriptures by his mother and grandmother (2 Tim. 1:5, 3:15). At a time when many were turning away from the faith, Paul encouraged him to hold fast and to continue in the things which he had been taught and heard.

Daniel, a teenager who was forcibly taken from his country, home and family, had to learn a new language and was educated in a corrupt, Babylonian system. He could have reasoned like others have done, “Why do I have to be so careful about my upbringing? After all, I am in a strange country and no one knows me here. I will get by much easier if I conform to the culture and embrace their godless teaching.” That, however, was not the path Daniel chose in his new surroundings. In fact, he “purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s meat or with the wine which he [the king] drank” (Dan. 1:8). The king’s “meat” and “wine” represent the best that this world has to offer, but “what shall it profit a man if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” (Mk. 8:36). Nothing in this world can be compared with the blessings God has bestowed on us through Christ. Daniel took a stand for God in a godless environment, and God blessed him for it. Furthermore, he refused to submit to the idols of the land, continuing his exemplary habit of praying to the Lord three times a day.

Many idols such as power, possessions and pleasures exist today, and care must be taken that they do not draw away your love for the Lord. Therefore I urge you not to compromise by giving up what you have been taught in the Word of God. Rather, let that instruction be your safeguard while you pursue your education, and God will honor you for it.

Sexuality 
“Flee also youthful lusts.” —2 Timothy 2:22

It is not unusual to hear of sexual harassment and attacks on college campuses. The use of alcohol, marijuana and other drugs is often directly related to these incidents as well as to other immoral decisions among young people. This connection is not surprising because the very wise and up-to-date Word of God showed long ago the link between drunkenness and sex: “Who hath woe? Who hath sorrow? Who hath contentions? Who hath babbling [shallow, foolish talk]? Who hath wounds without cause? Who hath redness of eyes? They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine. Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright. At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder. Thine eyes shall behold strange women, and thine heart shall utter perverse [wrong, shameful] things” (Prov. 23:29-33, italics added for emphasis).

Therefore, I encourage you to receive the excellent advice that the Word of God freely gives, namely: “My son, attend unto my wisdom … for the lips of a strange woman drop as an honeycomb, and her mouth is smoother than oil: but her end is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a two-edged sword … Remove thy way far from her, and come not nigh the door of her house: Lest thou give thine honour unto others, and thy years unto the cruel: Lest strangers be filled with thy wealth; and thy labours be in the house of a stranger; and thou mourn at the last, when thy flesh and thy body are consumed, and say, How have I hated instruction, and my heart despised reproof [correction]; and have not obeyed the voice of my teachers, nor inclined mine ear to them that instructed me!” (Prov. 5:1-13).

Like alcohol, pornography is very addictive and will lead to a wrong perspective of sexual relations, leading to all kinds of sinful lusts. Therefore it should be persistently shunned and avoided. Disobedience to the Word of God gets us into all kinds of trouble, but obedience to it keeps us from trouble.

Last but certainly not least, sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDS, are often the result of sexual activity outside of marriage. “When thy flesh and thy body are consumed” (v.11) is a dreadful but accurate description of what HIV/AIDS does to the body, eventually leading to death. Practicing “safe sex” is taught by so-called experts, but God teaches what is far better: abstinence!

Companionship 
“He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.” —Proverbs 13:20

In light of the previously mentioned topic of sexuality, it is not difficult to see the value of seeking out good company. Let’s look at the example of Daniel once again. In Babylon he had three very good friends: Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah. They were his companions because they were of the same faith and shared the same moral values. Furthermore, because Daniel made a vow of faithfulness to God, He even brought him into favor with Ashpenaz, who was “the prince of the eunuchs” and a Babylonian. This man, although he admitted that he feared the king, granted Daniel his request not to defile himself by eating the king’s food, allowing him instead to eat pulse, or crushed grain, and drink only water. In a typical way the pulse and water speak of Christ, who said, “I am the bread of life: he that cometh to Me shall never hunger, and he that believeth on Me shall never thirst” (Jn. 6:35). Read Daniel 1 to get all the details.

Daniel and his friends proved the faithfulness of God, who had said hundreds of years before, “Them that honour Me I will honour, and they that despise Me shall be lightly esteemed” (1 Sam. 2:30). Faced with a further crisis in Daniel 2, we read that “then Daniel went to his house, and made the thing known to Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, his companions: that they would desire mercies of the God of heaven” (Dan. 2:17-18). They brought the life-threatening matter before God in prayer, and God granted their request. Getting together with your Christian friends on campus to ask the Lord’s help in your studies and struggles is definitely something for which you will be greatly rewarded.

David is another example of one who recognized how important it is to walk with those of like mind. He said, “I am a companion of all them that fear Thee, and of them that keep Thy precepts” (Ps. 119:63) and, “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful” (1:1). Getting mixed up with the ungodly is often a gradual process: “walking,” “standing” and finally “sitting.” Once you are in association with them, you have lost your moral power to witness to them.

Ponder one additional quote from Paul the apostle: “Be not deceived: evil communications [company] corrupt good manners” (1 Cor. 15:33). What did Daniel, David and Paul have in common? They knew the corrupting influence of bad company and were determined to stay away from it. On the other hand, there is strengthening and encouragement in the companionship of those who love the Lord and want to please Him.

Conclusion 
I have sought to give you the best advice possible, which can only come from the Word of God. It is for you to prove for yourself the truthfulness of it. God’s Word can withstand any test, and God Himself will be true to His own Word.

May the Lord help you to avoid the pitfalls of sin. If you find that you have been walking in disobedience to His Word, it is not too late to change direction. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 Jn. 1:9). May He bless you in your studies to their completion, for “the desire accomplished is sweet to the soul” (Prov. 13:19). Then go forward into the workplace and be the best that God wants you to be.

Finally, if you are not yet a Christian you need to repent of your sin, open the door of your heart and ask the Lord Jesus to come in and save you. Do it now.

By Emmanuel V. John

Looking at young people today we see some living a pure life because they have a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ and have purposed in their hearts not to defile themselves with any sinful attraction. They are reading their Bibles, praying and participating in Christian fellowship. Their spiritual light is visible in their conversation, conduct, compassion, confidence in the Lord and chastity. Paul said to Timothy, “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Tim. 4:12 NKJV).

However, in these times the tide of peer pressure seems stronger, and many young people are being pulled into the ocean of substance abuse, sexual immorality, pornography and cravings for even more destructive pleasures. Satan’s motive is to destroy their lives; and his method is to deceive them – being the father/originator of lies (Jn. 8:44). He is destructive and deceptive, yet Jesus Christ has already defeated him. Therefore the youth in Christ no longer need to feel as captives, for they are more than conquerors through Christ who loves them (Rom. 8:37).Some Suggestions
Most teenagers desire to be treated as adults rather than children. As a Christian teenager, wherever you are, always recognize

You are valuable and special because your awesome God loves you and you belong to Him. What God knows about you is more important than what others think about you.

Remember where you belong and your true home address. Heaven is your lasting home and you should set your priorities in light of that fact. Always stand for the truth even if you must stand alone. The more of heaven you cherish, the less of earth you will covet, or desire.

Redeem your time by being disciplined in your studies, class assignments, Bible reading and prayer. You must use your time to develop your gift and to dedicate your life to the Lord. You can never go wrong in doing what is right in God’s sight.

Refrain from negative peer pressure and bad company as they can lead you into saying and doing things which seem pleasurable to the flesh but will affect your studies, goals and life in a dreadful way. You should witness to these individuals about the Lord Jesus, but never become like them. Therefore select friends who share your values, can be trusted, will stay with you even when you are in trouble, desire to encourage you and give good counsel. Always be conscious of the presence of Lord Jesus, your best Friend: “A friend loves at all times” (Prov. 17:17)

Refuse to compromise your moral values or faith in Christ. Instead, choose to take sides with the Lord and His people even though there may be consequences. “Moses when he became of age, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin, esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt; for he looked to the reward” (Heb. 11:24-26). It is better to be faithful than famous.

Rest on the promises of God and maintain open communication with your parents and family. Never forget that God will never forget you. “He Himself has said, I will never leave you nor forsake you” (13:5).

If YOU 
have received Jesus Christ as your personal Savior …

• You are a child of God – John 1:12
• You are forgiven and justified – Colossians 2:13, Romans 3:24
• You have new life from God – 2 Corinthians 5:17
• You are saved for eternity – John 5:24
• You are indwelt by the Holy Spirit – Ephesians 1:13-14
• You have peace with God – Romans 5:1

By Paul Palmer Sr.

I am impressed with many precious things while reading the Scriptures, not the least of which is the Lord’s care for widows. Before his departure to be with Christ, a brother told his wife, “The Lord will take care of you.” He left her in the competent care of the One who loved her and gave Himself for her (Gal. 2:20).

Both of my grandmothers as well as my mother were widows. I have seen firsthand the Lord’s special grace given, causing them to be blessings to others. The Lord is “a father of the fatherless, a defender of widows” (Ps. 68:5 NKJV). “He administers justice for the fatherless and the widow” (Dt. 10:18).

Dear Christian widow, the Lord is on your side and He will never leave you nor forsake you. Remember the words of Romans 8:31, given by the Holy Spirit through the apostle Paul: “If God be for [you], who can be against [you]?”

Be still, my soul: the Lord is on thy side;Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;
Leave to thy God to order and provide;In every change He faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul: thy best, thy heavenly FriendThrough thorny ways leads to a joyful end.
—Kathrina von Schlegel (1697-1797)

The Lord Provides 
“Widow” is mentioned four times in Deuteronomy 24. The number four speaks of that which is worldwide or universal. Wherever we go in the world we will find widows, and wherever they are the Lord will provide for them.

Their basic needs are food and clothing. “When you reap your harvest in your field, and forget a sheaf in the field, you shall not go back to get it; it shall be for the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow, that the Lord may bless you … When you beat your olive trees, you shall not go over the boughs again … When you gather the grapes of your vineyard, you shall not glean it afterward; it shall be for … the widow” (Dt. 24:19-21). “You shall not … take a widow’s garment as a pledge” (v.17). The Lord secures the food supply and the clothing for the widows. “Having food and clothing, with these we shall be content” (1 Tim. 6:8).

A Widow Of Zarephath 
The Lord told Elijah to go to Zarephath. He said, “I have commanded a widow there to provide for you” (1 Ki. 17:9). On arriving at the gate of the city, he saw the widow gathering sticks to make one last meal for her son and herself, before they would die. Elijah asked her for two things, a little water and a morsel of bread. She told him her plight, and he replied, “Do not fear … make me … first.”

Dear Christian widow, do not fear. “Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (Jn. 14:27). “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God” (Phil. 4:6). The Lord Jesus said, “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me” (Jn. 14:1). Make the Lord Jesus first in all things; give Him the first place that “in all things He may have the preeminence” (Col. 1:18).

This widow of Zarephath “went away and did according to the word of Elijah; and she and he and her household ate for many days. The bin of flour was not used up, nor did the jar of oil run dry, according to the word of the Lord which He spoke by Elijah” (1 Ki. 17:15-16). The flour speaks of the Lord Jesus and the oil of the Holy Spirit. Divine persons remain the same; they do not change. The Lord Jesus will ever be faithful. He is “the same yesterday, today, and forever” (Heb. 13:8). The Lord Jesus cannot fail; He never fails.

Because of her obedience and faith in the word of the Lord, she experienced His gracious provision for her and her household. The flour and the oil remained the same, though she used these ingredients daily to sustain them. The Lord is still using faithful widows today in many ways to encourage His people.

The time came when the widow’s son died. She was then without husband and son. How sad it must have been for her. But as a result of her son’s death she was to witness a great miracle: He would be brought back to life. Elijah the man of God prayed that the “‘child’s soul come back to him.’ Then the Lord heard the voice of Elijah; and the soul of the child came back to him, and he revived” (1 Ki. 17:21-22). “I caused the widow’s heart to sing for joy” (Job 29:13) we believe was the widow of Zarephath’s experience – her sorrow was turned to joy.

A Few Other Examples 
The Lord wants widows who know Him to trust Him daily for their needs. “Let your widows trust in Me” (Jer. 49:11). The apostle Paul said, “My God shall abundantly supply all your need according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:19 JND).

The widow Naomi experienced the kindness of the Lord through Boaz. “Naomi said to her daughter-in-law, ‘Blessed be he of the Lord, who has not forsaken His kindness to the living and the dead!’” (Ruth 2:20 NKJV).

Anna was a widow who “served God with fastings and prayers night and day … she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem” (Lk. 2:37-38).

A sister in Christ, a widow, told me recently that her cup was full, “overflowing into the saucer.” This dear lady has been an encouragement to many as undoubtedly Anna was too.

Instructions For Others 
Let us pray for our widows, encouraging and assisting them in whichever way possible. Honor them as we are told to do – “Honor widows who are really widows” (1 Tim. 5:3). “Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world” (Jas. 1:27).

By Eugene P. Vedder, Jr.

It is good to be reminded that God’s original provision for mankind – His creatures whom He placed at the head of His creation on earth – was that they would live as man and wife with a family under ideal conditions in a wonderful garden. This garden had at its center the Tree of Life, which the New Testament indicates is a picture of Christ (consider Mt. 18:20; Rev. 22:1-2,14). Nearby was the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. God told Adam that the fruit of every tree in the garden was available to eat except this latter tree. The garden was intended for human happiness, which comes from a right relationship with God – recognizing who God is and taking our place as His creatures in submission to Him.

Our first parents failed in this very early in their lives, even before they were expecting children, and as a consequence death came into the world. To protect them from eating of the Tree of Life and living forever in their sinful condition, God expelled them from the garden and guarded it lest they re-enter. Life was no longer ideal. Spiritual death – alienation from God – was the immediate consequence. Physical death followed, whether after many years of life as seen with the early patriarchs listed in Genesis 5, or much earlier through violent means as was the case with Abel who was killed by his brother Cain (Gen. 4). Despite all of mankind’s knowledge and inventiveness, death is normally the inevitable consequence – the “wages of sin” (Rom. 6:23 NKJV). Enoch’s translation, meaning the manner in which God took him to Himself and which is a type of the rapture of God’s saints that we today are awaiting, is an exception to this normal occurrence (Gen. 5:21-24).

The Care Of Widows 
The Bible gives Christians teaching about the care of widows in 1 Timothy 5:3-16. “She who is really a widow and left alone” in the full sense of the word is defined as one who “trusts in God and continues in supplications and prayers night and day” (v.5). God gives the privileged place of caring for a widow’s needs to her children and other descendants first. If such are lacking, the local assembly (church) is responsible to do this ministry. God does not make this a function of the government, although some might argue that this could well be a task for “God’s minister to you for good,” as government is termed in Romans 13:4.

Younger widows are encouraged to “marry, bear children, manage the house, give no opportunity to the adversary to speak reproachfully” (1 Tim. 5:14). In principle, the assembly is not to take on the responsibility of supporting widows under sixty years of age. Even if these younger widows – apparently without young children – do not remarry, they are often still able to work to support themselves. Older widows are expected to have lived a life of godliness and concern for the needs of others. These principles are given us as guidelines rather than inflexible rules, for the circumstances of each individual must be taken into consideration. The assembly is to relieve those who are really widows, and it should not be burdened to take on the support of widows who might technically meet the qualifications but are not in actual need of support.

Widows In Scripture 
As we go through Scripture we find many widows, both godly and ungodly. God in His infinite wisdom and marvelous grace cared for those who trusted Him, working in different ways to meet their individual needs.

Naomi, an elderly widow, upon returning to Bethlehem was supported initially by her daughter-in-law Ruth, who was herself a young widow. Ruth went out each day to glean, a task which was not easy. She worked hard to provide for herself and her mother-in-law as there was no government system of a dole, or allotment. God’s principle is that “if anyone will not [not cannot] work, neither shall he eat” (2 Th. 3:10). While this is plainly stated in the New Testament, we see this principle applied in the Old Testament as well. God rewarded Ruth’s loving diligence and trust in Him by bringing into her life a wonderful kinsman-redeemer, who in time became her husband. God gave this couple a child who was also a comfort to Naomi in her old age, and who ultimately became an ancestor of King David and of our Lord Jesus Christ. How marvelously God worked things together for good to these two widows who, Scripture tells us, came back to Bethlehem-Judah and to the Lord God of Israel! Orpah, Naomi’s other daughter-in-law, turned back to her people and her gods and was not heard from again. The whole story is found in the book of Ruth.

In 1 Samuel 25 we read of Abigail, who was beautiful, wise and godly. In the days of her marriage with wicked Nabal, she had sought to protect her husband from David’s anger, and in doing so she gave David spiritual advice. After Nabal was struck by the Lord and died, David took Abigail to be his wife – a fitting reward for this humble young widow.

God tells us that He cares for the fatherless as well as for the needs of the widows. He daily provided for the needs of the heathen widow at Zarephath whom He was using to provide for the needs of His prophet Elijah. He used Elijah to give her son back to her after the boy had died, and thus brought her to acknowledge Him as the true God (1 Ki. 17).

A widow of one of the sons of the prophets found her family in a sorrowful situation, as we read in 2 Kings 4:1-7. “The creditor is coming to take my two sons to be his slaves,” she cried to Elisha. The Lord would not let this happen if she in faith followed His prophet Elisha’s directions. God provided wonderfully for this family, providing in such a way that both the widow and her sons were able to see the Lord’s good hand and appreciate His provision for their material needs.

In 2 Kings 8:1-6 God timed things perfectly in the case of the Shunammite woman who had earlier obeyed His word (4:8-37). At this point she was seeking to regain her property after being gone for seven years. There we read: “The king appointed a certain officer for her, saying, ‘Restore all that was hers, and all the proceeds of the field from the day that she left the land until now’” (v.6). God loves to reward faith, and He certainly will remain no man’s – or widow’s – debtor!

Jesus in His pity not only told the widow at Nain walking in the funeral procession of her only son not to weep, but He gave her the joy of having her son restored to her alive in Luke 7. Later in that same book (21:1-4; Mk. 12:41-44), we find Him sitting opposite the temple treasury and noting what was happening there. Rich people were casting in gold and silver out of their surplus. Jesus commended a poor widow to His disciples, telling them that she had given more than all the rich, for she had given all that she had to live on. Certainly the Lord and Savior would provide for this widow’s needs.

Mary, the mother of Jesus, stood with other women at the cross, along with His disciple John, who the evening before had leaned upon His breast at the supper table. Jesus’ half-brothers did not believe on Him (Jn. 7:5). It is deeply touching to see how, amid His tremendous suffering, He tenderly entrusted the care of His mother to this disciple, and how this disciple then took her to his own home and cared for her (Jn. 19:25-27). Our parting glimpse of this honored woman is in Acts 1:14 where she and Jesus’ brothers, who evidently got saved after His resurrection, are found in earnest, united prayer together with His disciples.

Concern For Widows 
The early Church was concerned about its widows. The apostles themselves at first “waited on tables,” looking after their needs, but they soon delegated this service to seven men chosen by the assembly for this purpose (Acts 6:1-7).

Many widows at Joppa mourned after the death of Dorcas, also known as Tabitha. She had made garments for them, which was a lovely service. God used Peter to raise her from the dead, assuredly to the widows’ great joy (9:36-41).

Concluding Thoughts 
Throughout Scripture we see the importance of widows to our compassionate God. He cares and provides for them through their relatives and believers – part of that greater family, the family of God – who share His mind about them. He wants widows, like all of us, to trust in Him. The Lord understands their feelings. He loves to bless them and seeks to use them in blessing others.

By Roger Penney

Injustice
Some Bible scholars believe “Adullam” means “justice of the people” or “a resting place.” Strong’s concordance suggests that the meaning is uncertain. In view of the type of people who came there and put their trust in David, we may be right in accepting both definitions. “And every one that was in distress, and every one that was in debt, and every one that was discontented, gathered themselves unto him; and he became a captain over them” (1 Sam. 22:1-2 KJV). Even though David was on the run from his jealous enemy, King Saul, who wanted to kill him, the people came to David because he gave them hope for a better future.

David was a refuge for those who suffered injustice then. Now we who are victims of injustice or who are despised and rejected by this world have found safety, justice, love and truth with our Lord Jesus Christ. We have fled to Him for refuge (Heb. 6:18) and have heard His loving words of comfort: “Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Mt. 11:28).

This world is a place of injustice, without regard for the weak, poor or those of no reputation. It is a place of evil where the Devil, the enemy of God and man, rules through fear (1 Jn. 5:19). But the Lord has and is preparing a place for us. “In My Father’s house are many mansions … I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go … I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also” (Jn. 14:2-3).

A Place Of Eternal Rest 
The Father’s house is a place of eternal rest, but even now the Lord is with us and will never leave nor forsake us (see Heb. 13:5-6). We know that where He is there is peace and justice. Indeed we are assured that on this earth in a day to come it will be said, “Judgment runs down as waters, and righteousness as a mighty stream” (Amos 5:24).

We find in Scripture the place where the Lord Jesus has chosen to be, promising “where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them” (Mt. 18:20, see Dt. 12:5-6). There is no better, happier and holier place!

A little later in 1 Samuel we read that David sought for his parents a place of safety with the king of Moab. This may tell us something of David’s status at the time as a young man and formidable war leader. Recognized as such by the kings of the surrounding nations, it is likely that they were anxious to win his favor as a rival to Saul. Perhaps they thought a competition for Saul’s throne would throw Israel into anarchy, and then they could advance their own claims to Israel’s territory. Whatever their ideas, the kings of Moab, Ammon and the Philistine Confederacy were not friends of Israel.

“Great” men look with contempt on the poor, powerless and ill-educated. However Paul, in his first letter to the Corinthians, assures us that God chooses differently. “For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; and base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought the things that are: That no flesh should glory in His presence” (1:26-29). God’s presence is a “cave of Adullam” indeed, and it is where we belong.

David’s Influence 
David brought about a great change in the outcasts and discontented. They became his mighty men, many of whose names are recorded as being loyal to him and loving him. We do not know how we shall be found at the final reckoning of believers, but maybe we will be rewarded in that day by the recognition of the valor of the King of Kings.

All of David’s mighty men had done deeds of outstanding military skill and courage, but three also demonstrated a love, loyalty and devotion for David which demands our admiration. Possibly David’s throat was parched, or perhaps he was in a nostalgic mood as he remembered days of his boyhood in Bethlehem. Whatever the reason, “David longed, and said, Oh that one would give me drink of the water of the well of Bethlehem, that is at the gate! And the three brake through the host of the Philistines, and drew water out of the well of Bethlehem” (1 Chr. 11:17-18). This apparently most foolhardy of errands was undertaken by these incredibly brave men who later distinguished themselves in battle. However, it is this comparatively insignificant incident which God’s Spirit has chosen to record. God delights to see men and women honor the Lord Jesus and show their commitment to Him by even small, yet significant acts of love and devotion.

We should obey in all the things the Lord shows He wants us to do. For one, seemingly small matter, the Lord gave a demonstration to teach His disciples. After taking the position of the humblest slave and washing His disciples’ feet, the Lord encouraged them as He encourages us: “I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done” (Jn. 13:15). There must be hundreds of little favors that we can do for our brothers and sisters in Christ by which we may learn humility and Christ-likeness.

“Despise not the day of small things,” counseled Zechariah (Zech. 4:10). The Lord Jesus showed His approval when He commended the tiny act of kindness of giving a cup of cold water in the name of a disciple (Mt. 10:42). It is clear that such deeds truly make glad the heart of God, and the Lord Jesus may in them “see of the travail of His soul, and shall be satisfied” (Isa. 53:11).

We are not immune from an egotistical or selfish lack of concern for the poor, weak and suffering. For example, how often have we forgotten or looked away from the plight of a homeless man or woman begging on the street?

The Enemy Encampment 
The Philistine enemies of the people of God were encamped in the Valley of Rephaim. These were of the race of monster beings from whom came the giant Goliath of Gath and his brothers. They were in time slain by David and his mighty men (2 Sam. 21:16-22; 1 Chr. 20:4-8).

We find these monstrous beings as early as Genesis 6, where they are called “Nephilim” or “Fallen Ones.” They were the result of an unholy marital alliance. Later, the lineages of giants are referred to as “Anakim” or “Rephaim,” depicting their extraordinary large stature. These people were enormous; and the spies sent by Moses to report on the land gave a frightened report which cast doubt in the Israel’s mind as to God’s ability to lead them to victory (Gen. 6:1-4; Num. 13:30-33). The valley was especially sinister, presumably because of the residents’ size and hatred of the things of God. This is pictured by the name “Rephaim,” which means “fearful.”

Soldiers Of The King 
We need to take courage, realizing that the One who recruited us is the Lord Jesus, the King of Kings. He will most certainly lead us to conquer all the enemies who attack and seek to be master over us. Paul’s words to Timothy suggest physical, mental, emotional and spiritual toughness brought about by hard training. “Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier” (2 Tim. 2:3-4). We are soldiers and we must train hard, for without hard training we cannot hope to win the battles we must fight.

Roman generals often recruited their own legions, and the men were fanatically loyal to a popular leader such as Julius Caesar or Vespasian – during Paul’s lifetime. The soldiers, loyal to their leaders and comrades, trained with wooden swords filled with lead that were twice as heavy as the ones used in combat. Imagine hacking away at a post with such a sword for hours on end while the centurion in charge of recruit training gave any slacker a thrashing with his vine stick. Should we train any less in a spiritual sense for our Leader who has bought us with His own blood? Can we allow ourselves to become spiritually soft and flabby – useless in both war and peace?

The men who came to David developed into a formidable fighting force. His mighty men were the discontented, debtors and outcasts. So too are we: the weak, poor and foolish. But we can likewise train to be mighty in the Lord if we so commit ourselves to Him.

Thoughts During A Time Of Testing And Trouble 
Although David sought refuge in the cave of Adullam, he actually found it in the God of Israel. David cried out, “O God, be merciful unto me: for my soul trusteth in Thee” (Ps. 57:1). This psalm is one of the Maschil psalms, which trace the experiences of the devoted Christian life with all its challenges, difficulties and, sometimes, failures. With confidence in the salvation of God, David exclaimed, “He shall send from heaven, and save me from the reproach of him who would swallow me up. Selah” (v.3). Think about that: although we are considering that David fled from Saul, it is likely that Satan saw David was descended directly from the line of the Promised Seed, the actual “seed of the woman” (Gen. 3:14-15). Therefore Satan was determined to “swallow” him up.

David was seen by Saul as his enemy, but it was Satan who worked on Saul’s jealous nature to make him hate David. The followers of our “David,” the Lord Jesus, are similarly marked out as enemies. This is why Psalm 57 has such a pull on our hearts. David said, “My soul is among lions … even the sons of men, whose teeth are spears and arrows, and their tongue a sharp sword” (v.4). He goes on however to express his confidence in God, “My heart is fixed, O God, my heart is fixed: I will sing and give praise” (v.7). Rather than a song of triumph, the psalm ends with the writer’s heart lifted up to God to glorify Him: “Be Thou exalted, O God, above the heavens: let Thy glory be above all the earth” (v.11).

Here we are brought by David into the inner thoughts of his soul while in the cave. We may also understand these musings to be the actual thoughts of the Lord Jesus, for these psalms are inspired of God to glorify His Son. May we worship Him.

By Alfred Bouter

God is eternal, for He is “from eternity to eternity” (Ps. 90:2 JND) or “from everlasting to everlasting” (NKJV). Furthermore, “God is love” (1 Jn. 4:8,16). Combining these two aspects of God we see that He always was, is and will be love. God’s love is therefore eternal (“everlasting love,” Jer. 31:3 KJV). In His prayer to the Father recorded in John 17, the Lord Jesus mentioned that the Father loved the Son from “before the foundation of the world” (v.24).

The love of God is a topic that cannot be exhausted. While I was meditating on this, three passages came to mind: one in Romans 5, another in 1 John, and one other in Jude. Before we briefly consider these portions, let us ponder a few general thoughts about the love of God.

Love is God’s nature, and it cannot be separated from what God is in Himself, namely that “God is light” (1 Jn. 1:5) and that He dwells “in the light” (v.7). God is invisible to His creatures (see 1 Tim. 1:17, 6:16)¹, yet He has revealed Himself in the Son: “Jesus said … ‘he who has seen Me, has seen the Father’” (Jn. 14:9 NKJV). When He became Man, “the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth” (Jn. 1:14).

The Son, Jesus, came into this world to do God’s will (Ps. 40:7-8; Jn. 4:34), which He always did (8:29). In contrast, man, who had been created for God’s glory, dishonored Him – first in Adam and Eve’s fall (Gen. 3) and then ever since (Rom. 5:12). Jesus’ sinless perfection showed how corrupt we are, with no exception, because “all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (3:23 KJV).

However, in His love the Lord Jesus gave Himself to be the Sacrifice through which we were redeemed, as the blood of Jesus, God’s Son, cleanses (purifies) us from all sin. In doing this work, the Lord Jesus displayed the truth of the marvelous statement that “God is love.” It is unfathomable, profound and immeasurable. In perfect love the Father gave the Son and the Son gave Himself to save us from God’s wrath, so we might forever have fellowship with the Father and the Son in the power of the Holy Spirit (1 Jn. 1:3).

As believers, therefore, we walk in the light and have fellowship with one another (v.7). We have received a new nature which is of God, and He has poured out His love into our hearts – the center of our being – to be able to respond to His love. Even though we are living in a wicked world, we are here for His glory and for doing good – representing our God, who is love.

God’s Love Poured Out 
The Lord Jesus spoke to the woman at the well about “the gift of God” and His giving of “living water” (Jn. 4:10). Then speaking about those who receive the living water, He said, “The water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life” (v.14 NKJV). In other words, what He pours out into the believer goes back to its Source. The chapter shows later that this last point implies a response because what God pours out in His love goes back to Him in worship.

Here is the background: When the Lord Jesus accomplished His work on the cross, He died and then was buried, but on the third day He rose again from among the dead. After forty days He ascended to heaven, and ten days later He sent from there the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:2-4). On that day Peter spoke to the multitude in Jerusalem and said that God had made the same Jesus to be Lord and Christ, the Messiah, the Anointed (v.36). As Lord He is in perfect control, and God anointed Him with oil of gladness above His companions (Heb. 1:9). Now, before He reigns as Messiah on earth, He shares with the believers this anointing, or “unction” (KJV), for which reason they are called Christians and represent Him, being intimately linked with Him.

The apostle Paul wrote that “God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us” (Rom. 5:5 ESV). In addition to God giving us a new nature that is able to respond to His love, He has poured out His love into our hearts. The Holy Spirit enables us to give a response, implied in the above quote from John 4:14, that this love may return to God in thanksgiving, praise and worship.

Relying On God’s Love – Romans 5 
In Romans 5 Paul linked all that we have already considered with lessons we need to learn in God’s school, where tribulations, sufferings and trials are used by God to build His character in us. As we learn to rely on God and expect help from Him we put our confidence in Him, rather than depending on our selves and efforts. Relying on Him through faith, we learn to appreciate His provisions as the Holy Spirit leads us to worship and adoration. Thus, God’s Spirit causes the living water poured into us to go back to its Source.

How is this possible? The apostle explained it as follows: God saved us, according to His mercy, “through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior” (Ti. 3:5-6). The Holy Spirit is involved in our salvation by means of the water of God’s Word (Jn. 3:3-5). Using the Scriptures, He enables us to properly respond to our God and Father, and to the Lord Jesus (Jn. 4:24; Heb. 13:15). Therefore, in Paul’s second prayer in Ephesians,² he expressed his desire that Christ may dwell in our hearts and that we may know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge (Eph. 3:16-19). God’s love – the love of Christ – is so wonderful and great that we will never come to the end of it. Yet He wants us to know that love which surpasses knowledge!

“God Is Love” – 1 John 4:8,16 
This amazing and profound statement is really beyond our grasp. It is closely linked to a few other points made in the same chapter. This agape³ love “is of God” (v.7 NKJV) since He is its Source, for “God is love.” The same verse goes on to say that everyone who loves is born of God and knows Him. That is to say he or she has a relationship with Him, for this love is enjoyed in the context of a relationship with its Source – God, the great Giver.

For us to receive and enjoy this love, the Son needed to accomplish His mission of fully satisfying God as to our sins – the “propitiation” (v.10). The Son achieved the work of redemption, and on that basis God could show favor towards us that we might live through Him. What He has done demonstrates the love God has for us.

This is then connected with our love towards one another as children of God (v.11). If we love one another while God abides or remains in/with us, this proves that His objective has been realized (v.12). This is also linked to a true confession of Jesus as Savior and to the enjoyment of God’s love in us, as we remain (“abide” or “continue”) in Him and in love (vv.14-16). In this context the statement that “God is love” is repeated once more (v.16).

There is also a link with the future: love made perfect “with us.” “Herein has love been perfected with us that we may have boldness in the day of judgment, that even as He is, we also are in this world” (v.17 JND). In other words, this whole paragraph in 1 John 4 speaks of God’s love – past, present and future!

Keeping Ourselves In The Love Of God – Jude 21 
We conclude with the matter of our responsibility, which does not contradict this amazing topic of the love of God. “Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life” (Jude 21). We are living in the age of grace in which God’s amazing love is displayed and experienced in many different ways. At the same time the enemy attacks what is precious to God and tries to rob Him by assaulting the believers. God, however, is and remains in control.

Yet we have our responsibility. First, we are encouraged to build up ourselves on our most holy faith (v.20), once delivered (entrusted or committed) to the saints (v.3). God’s foundation does not change, although everything else does. We need to keep building on this right foundation. Second, we need to keep praying in the Holy Spirit, in tune with Him and depending on Him as the Lord Jesus always did. Third, we need to keep⁴ ourselves in the love of God, namely that we remain or abide in it, which is John’s major theme. This implies that we cultivate our relationship with Him in prayer, reading and obeying God’s Word, and putting it into practice. Fourth, keeping ourselves goes together with waiting, looking forward to our Lord’s coming. His coming again will be an act of mercy to us, by snatching us away from this wicked world. We may look forward to that, for then He will usher us into eternal life.

We received eternal life the moment we believed (Jn. 3:16), along with the new nature, which is “His seed” in us (1 Jn. 3:9). We cultivate this special treasure in us by properly responding to God’s love in our daily lives. At the same time we are on the way to eternal life where He dwells and where we will dwell with Him and with each other forever. Praise God!

ENDNOTES 
1. God is love and He loves: the Father loves, the Son loves and the Holy Spirit loves. This love will never contradict what God is, namely light. This balance was demonstrated in the Lord Jesus’ life on earth, “full of grace and truth” (Jn. 1:14). 
2. This prayer (Eph. 3:14-21) is addressed to the Father. He is the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ even though He is called the God of our Lord Jesus Christ (Eph. 1:17), the glorified Man at God’s right hand. The triune God is called the Father of Glory. In Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 3, the emphasis is on the eternal relationship of the Father and the Son, for which reason many manuscripts omit the words “of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 
3. The Greek text has different words for love, such as agape, which emphasizes God as its Source and ultimate Object. Along with other places, this term is used in 1 John 3-4. The new nature we received when we repented and believed is in tune with this love and cannot sin (1 Jn. 3:9). God uses it to display His love to where we are. In a world of hatred, we may display love; in a world of darkness, light; and in a scene of death, life. 
4. The New Testament uses this verb (Gr. tereo) 70 times, a study in itself, of which 36 are in John’s writings.

By Jacob Redekop

John called himself the disciple “whom Jesus loved” (Jn. 13:23, 20:2, 21:7,20 NKJV), and to him was given the great favor to write about the love of God, which he did in most eloquent terms in the gospel and three epistles that bear his name. Despite the fact that John, the apostle, did not use his name as the author in the four books, evidence within them makes it very clear that he, the one who leaned on Jesus’ bosom, was their penman as used by the Spirit of God. The books’ glorious theme of the love of God touches our hearts, knowing that His love has reached down to save us from our sins and draw us to Himself. Although much has been written about the love of God, this subject has not been, nor ever will be, exhausted.

Sin entered the world through one man: Adam. Through that original sin, death has passed to all men because all have sinned, and therefore the whole world is guilty before God. The sad effect of this has left man eternally lost under the sentence of death. This was a hopeless situation as far as we were concerned, for we could do nothing to gain favor or acceptance with God.

However, God in sovereign grace sent His only begotten Son into the world to stand in the gap – an arbitrator between a holy God and sinful man. “We have seen, and bear witness, and declare to you that eternal life which was with the Father and was manifested to us – that which we have seen and heard we declare to you” (1 Jn. 1:2-3). The Lord Jesus, the beloved Son of God, is the One that is declared to be God’s loving answer to our need.

The Love Of God Towards Man 
“Love is of God … God is love. In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him.” —1 John 4:7-9

Love is of God; that is His very nature. His love, shown towards us, flows out from Himself. He is its source, and He has provided the Lord Jesus as the answer for our need. In Proverbs 8:31 we read that He was “rejoicing in His inhabited world, and [His] delight was with the sons of men.”

The wonderful plan of love originated with God. Yet, when the moment came and the Savior was born, the world was asleep and unaware of the heavenly Visitor. God’s time in His plan of love for mankind was not delayed by the world’s inattention, for “when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman” (Gal. 4:4). He was “God … manifested in the flesh” (1 Tim. 3:16). The Lord of Glory – born in a stable and laid in a manger!

Shepherds on the plains of Judea were the first witnesses to this plan of love. They were awake, watching their flocks at night, when an angel of the Lord came to bring glad tidings of great joy, “for there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Lk. 2:11). These humble shepherds had a most wonderful experience! Suddenly a response sounded forth from a heavenly host, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (v.14). Yes, “toward men!” This is why the Savior came – to declare God’s love to mankind. Christ, the Son of the Father’s love, is God’s answer to our need, having brought life into this world where death had reigned. ”Where sin abounded, grace abounded much more” (Rom. 5:20).

We find in 1 John 4:9-10 God’s two-fold purpose in sending His Son. The passage says, “God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” First of all, God’s purpose was to communicate life – divine life through His Son. Secondly, He sent His Son to take up the sin question and to settle it to the satisfaction of a holy and righteous God. This is what it means that He is the “propitiation” for our sins.

The Result Of God’s Love In Our Hearts 
“Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” —1 John 4:11

This verse is an appeal to our hearts. If God loves us so much, what is our response? We saw the first reply came from a heavenly host and was heard by certain shepherds watching their flocks by night. Now the response is witnessed on earth by those in whom that love flows freely towards each other as they drink at love’s fountain, God’s blessed Son.

John continued by saying, “By this we know that we abide in Him, and He in us, because He has given us of His Spirit” (v.13). Paul added, “The love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us” (Rom. 5:5).

The wonderful love of God flows down to us and leaves a lasting result within us because God abides in us and His Spirit has been given to us. Jesus is no longer walking here on this earth, for God has raised Him from among the dead and received Him into heaven. Yet we, His followers, are left in this world as the epistle, or letter, of Christ to be read by all men (2 Cor. 3:2-3). The beautiful features of Christ will be seen by those in this dark world as they see these same features lived out in the lives of believers. The love they observe among believers is not natural; it is divine.

God’s Love Is Perfected In Us 
“God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him. Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as He is, so are we in this world.” —1 John 4:16-17

The Spirit of God dwelling in the believer bears witness with our spirit that we are the children of God (Rom. 8:16). We are told a little further along in that chapter in Romans that nothing can “separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (vv.35,38-39). God brings everything He does to a final and perfect conclusion. His love will not rest until He has dispelled every fear and cancelled every charge the enemy would dare to bring against the believer.

Dear Christian, are there any doubts or fears in your heart? Does the day of judgment raise questions in your mind? Notice that the verse that begins this section states “that we may have boldness in the day of judgment.” On what does this boldness rest? The answer is also given: “Because as He is, so are we in this world.” It is not as He was when here on earth as the sin bearer, but as He is now – the One who is seated and glorified at God’s right hand. The One who bore our sins upon the cross is now seated on the throne in heaven and representing us there. Christ in glory answers every charge that could be brought against a believer, by showing the wounds in His hands and His side – tokens of His wondrous love for us.

May His love fill our hearts and cause us to rejoice as we go on our pathway towards home, where His perfect love will be our theme for all eternity.

By Milton Jamieson

The love of God is the infinite beauty and greatness of God’s manifold (many and varied) perfections. It is the interweaving of all that God is – His attributes and His very nature. It is the spring and source of all His motives, purposes, words and deeds.

The Old Testament mentions the love of God very few times, while the New Testament is filled with references to it – including the love of the Father, the love of the Son and the love of the Holy Spirit. Yet both testaments are complete in their expressions of the great love of God.

Before God made man, God loved him. In fact, it is the very reason why He made man in the first place. Of all God’s creation, nothing else is made with the capacity for love and fellowship like man. God made him in His very own image and after His very own likeness to enjoy, share and display His love.

An expression of God’s love and care is seen in the way God created the earth with everything that man would ever need for food, delight, medicine (even before man sinned) and much more. God placed man as head and ruler over this planet, which is a manifestation of His great love for man.

Even when man sinned, God did not drive him out of the garden naked or abandon him to a life of sin, death and everlasting destruction. Rather, God made coats of skin for Adam and his wife Eve, clothing them. Moreover, the love of God was further demonstrated when God allowed man, having eaten the forbidden fruit, to die instead of living in that sinful state of pain, sickness and suffering forever and ever. In this it was a blessing that God kept man from the tree of life after he sinned. Not only this, but right away God also announced the Savior and Redeemer when He said, “And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; He shall crush thy head, and thou shalt crush His heel” (Gen. 3:15 JND). This prophecy was fulfilled at Golgotha, where Jesus Christ, our Lord, Savior and Redeemer, in love suffered, bled and died in our place.

John 3:16 tells us, “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” (KJV). Therefore we understand that the love of God is a universal love. God loves every man, woman and child immensely. Who can reach the towering height, sound the unfathomable depth, or embrace the everlasting expanse of His love? With what words shall it be defined? In what balances can it be weighed? It cannot be numbered for it is infinite.

Who can offend God enough so that His love would lose its power? Where is the flood of water that can quench its flame? All the water of the seas and rivers cannot quench the love of God. “Set me as a seal upon thine heart, as a seal upon thine arm: for love is strong as death; jealousy is cruel as the grave: the coals thereof are coals of fire, which hath a most vehement flame. Many waters cannot quench love; neither can the floods drown it: if a man would give all the substance of his house for love, it would utterly be contemned” (Song 8:6-7).

Such is the love of God, and such is His love for us who believe.