Jan 26,2026- Morning Devotional

# Day 26 of 31 — 1 John 4: Embracing the Love of God

## Understanding the Message of 1 John 4

Scripture (NKJV)

“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God…” — 1 John 4:7

“We love Him because He first loved us.” — 1 John 4:19

1 John 4 teaches us how to discern between truth and deception. John warns us to test the spirits. Not every voice that seems spiritual comes from God. The clearest test is always Christ-centered. Does it confess Jesus as Lord? Does it align with Scripture? Does it produce godly fruit?

Then, John reveals the heart of the chapter: God is love. This isn’t sentimental love. It’s not a love that approves everything. Biblical love is holy, sacrificial, and filled with truth. It has a source: God Himself.

John makes it clear: we don’t create love; we receive it. God demonstrated His love by sending His Son. When that love takes root in us, it doesn’t remain private. It overflows to others. That’s why John says love is evidence of being born of God. If Christ has loved us, we can’t remain hardened, bitter, or cold.

So today, the question isn’t, “Do I feel loving?” The real question is: Am I abiding in the God who is love? When we stay close to Him, love becomes possible—even when it’s hard.

## Practical Application: Living Out God’s Love

Test the Input

What voices are shaping you right now? Consider the influences of media, fear, anger, and pride. Compare them to Scripture. Are they guiding you towards love or away from it? Take a moment to reflect on this.

Receive God’s Love

Spend two minutes thanking Jesus for the cross—slowly. Reflect on the depth of His sacrifice. Let His love wash over you. It’s in this space of gratitude that we truly begin to understand the magnitude of His love.

Love in Action

Choose one person to love intentionally today. This could be through encouragement, forgiveness, service, or prayer. Take a step towards them. Let your actions reflect the love you’ve received. It’s in these small acts that we can make a big difference.

## The Power of Love in Our Lives

Love is transformative. It changes us from the inside out. When we embrace God’s love, we become vessels of that love. We can share it with others, creating a ripple effect in our communities.

Imagine a world where love reigns. A world where we choose to uplift rather than criticize. Where we forgive instead of holding grudges. This is the kind of love that God calls us to embody.

As we navigate our daily lives, let’s remember that love is not just a feeling. It’s an action. It’s a choice we make every day. It’s about being present for others and showing them the grace we’ve been given.

## Prayer: A Heartfelt Connection

Father, thank You that You are love. Help me test what I hear and hold fast to what is true. Fill me with Your love shown in Christ, and let that love flow through my words and actions today. Teach me to love like You love—sincerely and faithfully. Amen.

## Conclusion: Living Out Our Faith

In conclusion, let’s commit to living out our faith with courage and conviction. Let’s empower one another to grow spiritually. As we do this, we support global missions to spread the Gospel. Together, we can make a difference.

Let’s embrace the love of God and share it with the world. After all, we love because He first loved us.

DispatchToDiscipleship 1John 1John4 GodIsLove LoveOneAnother TestTheSpirits WeLoveBecauseHeFirstLovedUs ChristianDevotional DailyDevotional Discipleship FollowJesus