I remember well when I asked Jack Miller, the founder of World Harvest Mission, what his biggest struggle in his Christian life was. Jack, without a doubt, was one of the godliest men I have ever known. Humble, kind, and gentle in the way he encountered people. Passionate for the lost, focused on the Kingdom of God and willing to laying down his life for the glory of God. I was surprised by his answer: “Maria,” he said: “My biggest struggle is to receive the Father's love!” My startled look told him that I was not prepared for the simple but most profound answer. Years later, as I visited his grave site, I read on his tombstone 1 John 4:16, “We know and rely on the love God has for us.”
Yesterday at church I was reminded of the interaction I had with Jack many years ago. Among other things, our Pastor talked about receiving the love of God. He pointed out that fellowship with Christians and memorizing scripture about God's love for us are key components to receiving the Father's love.
As I meditated today on why it is so difficult to receive the Father's love, several thoughts came to mind. 1 John 4:16 was central to my insight.
- I realize I don't know enough of the love the Father has for
me. Too often I interpret 'his love' through my own understanding of
what love is or my understanding of how I feel loved or want to be
loved. To know the love of God as 1 John says means that I
need to know the love that is demonstrated by God himself for and to
me. Questions arise like: “How do you, Father, think of me? What
are his feelings toward me? How does it impact my heart to know God,
the Holy One, loves me? What do I believe deep down in my heart that
He actually thinks of me? Does He really love me? Is He fond of me?
Does He really know me and how can He still love me? Accept me as I
am?”
If you have read this far, would you take some time now to think about these questions too. Sit quietly for 10 minutes and think that God loves you. Maybe you need to recall an emotional memory when you felt love and acceptance. When someone truly loved you, how did you feel about it? What was or is your emotional response to it? Similarly, can you feel that love from God?!
If your mind wanders from thinking about God, don't be disappointed, every time you turn away is also an opportunity to turn towards God again. He is a welcoming Father, let Him embrace you!
