We love because he first loved us.

—1 John 4:19

As human beings, we like to think of ourselves as the center of our universe. We determine the greatness or validity of most things around us based on their impact on us. Some of us even consider ourselves great adventurers, inventors, and investigators. However, in our most important quest, we did not act first; God did. He loved us sacrificially. He loved us personally. God loved us first. Our love is a response to his grace of going first with love. Our love is simply sharing with others what has been lavished upon us. We love because he loved us first.

God and Father, I know that I don’t fully understand the fullness of your love, but I know that you have blessed me with it in ways I could not have imagined. So please, Father, help me remember your great love for me when I am faced with temptation, led to doubt your grace, or wonder about my worthiness. I want your love to be reflected in my daily life. Thank you for loving me so completely. Thank you for loving me sacrificially. Thank you for loving me when I was a sinner and alienated from you. Most of all, thanks for loving first! In Jesus’ name, I praise you. Amen.