But I love you
by Pastor Greg Fowler
Click here to download your printable verse to carry with you today.
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him (John 3:17).
Read John 3:1–17
One of my daughters regularly got into mischief. We would often say that trouble seemed to follow her, and, no doubt, she sometimes sought it out. She has an outgoing, infectious and cheeky personality that draws people to her, and she knew that she could ‘get away’ with things with a kind word and a smile. When I would chat to her about something that had happened, and I spoke of my disappointment, she would say, ‘I get that. But I love you!’, and I would just melt.
Love can transform everything. Whether it is a conversation between father and daughter or a life of despair and rejection, love is the miracle that creates change. God’s love for us, as shown in the work of Jesus, makes us different. I can’t see the world as a place without hope when I know God himself is part of my life. God’s love is active; it changes how I think about myself and interact with others. It also gives me the confidence to know that whatever happens to me, God has the words, ‘I get that, and I love you!’ I know God is in control, and what happens to me matters.
God’s promise that we will have eternal life is life-changing. Eternal life doesn’t start when we are called home from our physical life; instead, it begins with God’s action in our lives today. He offers us a way to overcome those things that sap us of life. Broken relationships, broken dreams and broken bodies are renewed by God’s love. We find it in his word and his people. Praise God for his love.
Heavenly Father, we thank you for your love. We acknowledge those things that need new life in our lives now. We believe in Jesus as our Lord and rest in his love. May you transform us according to your will. Amen.
Pastor Greg lives in beautiful Redland Bay with his wife, Connie, where they enjoy the beaches, weather and outdoor lifestyle of South Brisbane. He serves Faith Lutheran College, Redlands, as the college pastor.
- Click here to read previous devotions.
- We are also posting them on LCA Facebook, making it easy for you to share them with family and friends.
- Sign up to receive Daily Devotion in your inbox every morning. If you’re already doing that, please encourage others to sign up. Click here for the link.
