1 John 4:8 - Why Does God Love Us?

1 John 4:8

"Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love."

When you think about mankind, and think about how we are basically selfish, uncooperative, and disrespectful, you have to ask yourself the question, “Why does God love man?” This age-old question can be answered in several ways, but ultimately, it boils down to the nature of God Himself.

God’s love for mankind is a reflection of His own nature. The Apostle John told us in 1 John 4:8 that God is love. Everything He does is motivated by love. Think about that. It isn't because we have earned His love, or that we deserve His love. He loves us because He is love.

God has shown us His love from the very beginning. He created us in His own image (Genesis 1:26-27). By our very design, we have some inherent value and worth because of who designed us! God has invested His own personal interest in each of us and desires a relationship with each of us.

What is mind-bending is that even with our flaws and imperfections, God’s love for us is unconditional. We see that in the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus died on the cross to pay the penalty – not for anything He did – but for our sins (John 3:16.) Do you really need any more evidence than that? God’s love for us isn’t based on our performance – but on His character.

Romans 5:8:  "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us."

Now, it is important to understand that God’s love is not just a warm and fuzzy feeling. God’s love is an active and transformative love. When we accept God’s love and allow it to work in our lives, it changes who we are – changes us from the inside out. We become more like Christ and are able to love others the same way God loves us.

Remember, though, God’s love for us and our love for Him is not just about feeling good; He expects us to respond to His love with reverence and obedience. God desires that we love Him deeply and respect Him, following His commands as an expression of our love and gratitude. Jesus Himself said, "If you love me, keep my commands" (John 14:15). This shows that our love for God must be evident in our actions and our willingness to live according to His will.

We need to return God's love to Him, not because we have to or because He will stop loving us if we don't, but because it is the right thing to do to show our appreciation – much like a child shows love and respect for their parents. This is a natural response to the profound and selfless love that God has shown us.

1 John 5:3:  "In fact, this is love for God: to keep his commands. And his commands are not burdensome.".

Let us be thankful for God’s love and allow it to transform our lives so that we can love others the same way. Let us also remember to love and fear Him, showing our commitment through obedience to all of His commands, as a true expression of our appreciation and gratitude.