This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. 

John 4:10, NIV

Many scholars believe that 1 John was written to a church hurting after a bitter split. The author writes to this wounded congregation about many things, repeatedly admonishing them to love one another. According to the letter, knowing God and loving our neighbor go together. We learn two further things about love: first, love should imitate Jesus, who lays down his life for us; second, we love one another when we help others. 

Imitating Jesus’ love seems impossible—especially for wounded people. Yet, the letter has good news: God is both the source of love and the one who first took initiative. We do not generate love on our own. God is the one who gives us the ability to love. 

Prayer Guide:

1. Reflect on Jesus’ life, death, resurrection and ascension. What does Jesus reveal to you about love? 
2. Where are you hurting, and what do you lack? Confess to God the ways you need to grow in your dependence on his love. 
3. Pray for the Holy Spirit to give you the love of God and rest in the assurance of God’s great love for you. Pray for ways to practice love in your life with those who are close to you and with strangers. 
4. Give thanks for the day God has given! It is a new day to learn and practice the love we find in Jesus Christ.