Day 19: A result of Christmas - Love

Love is the basis for everything with God. If there was no love given by Him, we would not even have a hope of being in a relationship with Him. It is because of His love for us that we can have hope. The atonement of Jesus was a substitutionary sacrifice that satisfied the demands of God’s justice upon and for sin. With His sacrifice, Jesus paid the penalty of man’s sin, bringing forgiveness, imputing righteousness, and reconciling man to God. Jesus’ death paid the penalty for sin and through faith man can accept Christ’s substitution as payment for sin. 1 John says perfect love drives away fear. Fear is an unpleasant emotion. It is caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous, likely to cause pain or a threat.

Read 1 John 4:7-21

Q: Circle/count how many times the word love is used in this passage?

Q: What is the biblical definition of love based upon this passage?

Q: How has God designed us to need love?

Q: How does God Himself (Father, Son, Holy Spirit) exist in a perfect relationship of love?

Q. How does it change the way you identify yourself and your worth knowing that you are loved by the Creator of the universe and the King of Kings?

Q: Do you have a hard time accepting the great love God has for you? If so, why?

Q: How does your view of yourself affect your ability to love others? If someone is having trouble loving others, what should be the first place for them to start?