Because God First Loved Me

1 John 4:19

Published on: April 21, 2026

Last updated on: April 21, 2026

We love because he first loved us.
1 John 4:19 NIV

God loves me. That is so amazing to me. When I think that the creator of this universe even knows who I am, much less loves me, I am overwhelmed. I know me, what I am, and how unworthy I am of His love. Yet I am told repeatedly in the Scripture that He does indeed love me. And His presence and work in my life affirm that. God does indeed love me.

And, because He loves me, I am enabled to love others. I am not naturally a very loving person. I can be quite self-centered. My first thought is usually for what will benefit me and bring me comfort or happiness. But God’s love enables me to love others. To put their interests ahead of my own. I can love them because God first loved me.

I don’t mean to imply that I have completely overcome my selfish nature or that responding in love comes naturally now. But through the years, God has been at work in my life, transforming me into His image and enabling me to love. I know by experience the truth of this verse. I can love others because of His love at work in my life.

Heaping Burning Coals – Romans 12:19-20

Defeat your enemies, not by taking vengeance, but by showing love. That is not the way of this world. But it is the way of God’s kingdom.

Two Ways to Respond to an Offense – Proverbs 17:9

Will we forgive and promote love and unity within the body? Or will we tell others about the offense, allowing it to cause division?

Welcoming and Eating with Sinners – Luke 15:1-2

Rather than judging others unworthy of God’s love, I need to follow Jesus’ example and share his love- even with sinners and tax collectors.

For God So Loved the World – John 3:16

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

(This post was originally published on

October 2, 2022

)

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1 John Bible Study God's Love Love Others

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Ed Jarrett

Just an old clay jar that God continues to see fit to use in his kingdom's work. I am retired, married with 2 children, and 4 grandchildren. I have followed Jesus for many years. And I love to share what He has given me from His word.

A Note to Readers

The views expressed here are solely mine and do not necessarily reflect those of any other person, group, or organization. While I believe they reflect the teachings of the Bible, I am a fallible human and subject to misunderstanding. Please feel free to leave any comments or questions about this post in the comments section below. I am always interested in your feedback.

2 thoughts on “Because God First Loved Me – 1 John 4:19”

Thank’s so much i relly needed that.

Ed Jarrett

September 26, 2025 at 4:32 am

You are welcome. I am glad you found it helpful. Praise God.
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