January 13, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Galatians Chapter 5

1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.

2 Behold, I Paul say unto you, that if ye be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing.

3 For I testify again to every man that is circumcised, that he is a debtor to do the whole law.

4 Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace.

5 For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith.

6 For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.

7 Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?

8 This persuasion cometh not of him that calleth you.

9 A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump.

10 I have confidence in you through the Lord, that ye will be none otherwise minded: but he that troubleth you shall bear his judgment, whosoever he be.

11 And I, brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why do I yet suffer persecution? then is the offence of the cross ceased.

12 I would they were even cut off which trouble you.

13 For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.

14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

15 But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another.

16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.

17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.

18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.

19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,

20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,

21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,

23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.

25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

26 Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction:

In Galatians Chapter 5, Paul calls believers to stand firm in the freedom they have received through Christ. He warns them not to submit again to the yoke of the law, particularly through external religious practices like circumcision. Paul emphasizes that true faith works through love and that neither observing the law nor external rituals can lead to righteousness. Instead, believers are to walk in the Spirit and bear the fruits of the Spirit, which characterize life in Christ.

Commentary:

Call to Freedom (Verses 1–15):
Paul urgently urges the Galatians to live in the freedom granted by Christ. However, freedom in Christ does not mean indulging in sinful desires but serving one another in love. He strongly criticizes circumcision as a means of justification before God. Those who rely on the law must keep all of it and separate themselves from Christ’s grace. Paul reminds them that only faith working through love matters. He also warns against divisions and conflicts within the community, which arise from selfishness and pride.

Life in the Spirit (Verses 16–26):
Paul explains that living in the Spirit overcomes the sinful desires of the flesh. He highlights the opposition between flesh and Spirit—the flesh produces sinful actions like envy, anger, impurity, and division, while the Spirit produces divine qualities such as love, joy, peace, and patience. Those who belong to Christ crucify their sinful nature and live by the Holy Spirit. Paul encourages believers not to seek empty glory but to act in humility and love.

Summary:

In Galatians 5, Paul emphasizes the importance of freedom in Christ and warns against returning to legalism. He underlines that true righteousness is not achieved by observing laws or rituals but through faith that works through love. Paul calls believers to live by the Spirit to overcome sinful desires. The fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, and other virtues—should define the Christian life. The chapter ends with a warning not to be conceited or quarrelsome but to live in love and humility with one another.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 87—“To My Father, and Your Father”
This chapter is based on Luke 24:50-53; Acts 1:9-12.
Read online here

 

Commentary

Introduction:

In Chapter 87 we learn about the final act of Jesus’ earthly life and His ascension into heaven. Jesus, having triumphed over death and sin, prepares to ascend to His Father in heaven. This moment marks the completion of His mission on Earth and the lasting promise of His presence in the hearts of believers. The place of His ascension—the Mount of Olives—is not merely a geographical location but a place rich with memories of Jesus’ life, prayers, and His struggle for humanity’s salvation. The ascension signifies the transition from Jesus as the suffering Redeemer to the triumphant King ascending to heaven.

Commentary:

Chapter 87 presents Jesus’ ascension as an act of victory and fulfillment. After completing His earthly mission and revealing Himself as the living Savior, He enters the heavenly realms. This moment is bittersweet for the disciples—filled with sorrow at parting from their Master but also with hope, as they now have confirmation of His victory over death. The Mount of Olives, once a place of Jesus’ prayers and struggles, now becomes the stage for His farewell. Yet, this farewell is not final; rather, it marks the beginning of a new era of hope. Jesus promises to remain with His followers and assures them that He will return one day in glory.

The angels affirm to the disciples that Jesus has not departed forever but will return in the same way they saw Him ascend. The image of heavenly hosts welcoming their King symbolizes Jesus’ future triumph at His second coming. Before this moment, Jesus raises His hands in blessing—a powerful affirmation of His presence and ongoing connection with the disciples. This blessing uplifts the disciples spiritually, filling them with joy and confidence in Christ’s continued presence and His role as their intercessor.

Summary:

Chapter 87 portrays Jesus’ ascension as a profound moment of exaltation and victory. The Mount of Olives, once a place of prayer and struggle, becomes the setting for His glorious ascent into heaven. After offering His disciples comfort and the promise of His return, Jesus is taken up by a cloud, disappearing from their sight. The angels proclaim that Jesus will return in the same way. This event conveys a dual message to believers: the comfort and assurance of Christ’s ongoing presence and the hope of His glorious return. The disciples return to Jerusalem with newfound joy and confidence, their hearts filled with praise and gratitude for the living Christ, who continues to live and intercede for them.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/13-01-2025-galatians-chapter-5-believe-his-prophets/

Lesson 3.To Be Pleasing to God
Living for the Honor of God

What does it mean to lead a life that pleases God? This question concerns many believers, as we often tend to associate God’s pleasure with performance, perfection, or outward actions. However, the Bible shows us a different path: God does not seek perfect behavior but a sincere heart that trusts Him and acts in love.

In this lesson, we discover that God’s joy in us does not depend on our actions but on His infinite love and grace. He delights in our return, accepts us despite our weaknesses, and invites us to actively build His kingdom as living stones.

We will learn that even the smallest faith can achieve great things and that our most valuable goal should be to live pleasingly to God in all things—through trust, love, and devotion. This lesson encourages us to consciously place our lives in God’s hands and to make His love visible through our actions.

Living pleasingly to God does not mean perfection but a life marked by trust, mercy, and genuine love. Let us engage to understand more deeply what it means to live in God’s joy and grace.

3.1 More Valuable Than You Can Imagine
More Valuable Than You Can Imagine – The Infinite Love of God

Read Luke 15:11–32. What does the Parable of the Prodigal Son reveal about God’s mercy and love? What warning does it contain for those who, like the other son, stayed at home?

The Parable of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15:11–32 impressively reveals God’s boundless mercy and love. The father in the story symbolically represents God, who runs to his lost son with compassion, embraces him, and fully welcomes him back into the family. This shows that God’s love is not conditional and that forgiveness is always possible, no matter how far someone has strayed from God. The father’s reaction defies human logic by responding not with punishment or rejection but with joy and acceptance—a powerful image of God’s grace.

At the same time, the parable contains a warning for those who stayed at home like the older son. The older son harbors resentment and misunderstanding toward the father’s grace because he feels disadvantaged by his loyalty and obedience. This reflects the attitude people can adopt when they believe that through their own works or “righteousness,” they deserve more of God’s favor. The older son’s reaction warns against remaining in self-righteousness and refusing to rejoice over another’s repentance. It is a reminder not to be hard-hearted or envious but to also grant God’s mercy to others.

The parable encourages recognizing God’s love as immeasurable and undeserved and to practice mercy and compassion toward others. It reminds us that no one has gone too far to be taken back by God and that even those who consider themselves “faithful” should open their hearts to God’s joy over the return of the lost.

Interesting is the reaction of the other son. Why is this reaction very human, at least partially based on fairness, and also very understandable? What, however, does his role in the story teach us about the fact that human notions of fairness do not capture the depth of the Gospel and God’s love for us?

The reaction of the older son in the parable is very human and understandable because it is strongly influenced by the natural desire for fairness. He feels unjustly treated because he has always been faithful and obedient, while his brother squandered the inheritance and is still received with open arms. From a human perspective, it seems only logical that loyalty and hard work should be rewarded, while misconduct should have consequences. This thinking aligns with a performance-oriented understanding of justice: those who give more should receive more.

Therefore, the older son feels anger and disappointment. His complaint reflects the feeling that his efforts are not being recognized while his brother is rewarded despite serious transgressions. Many people can identify with this feeling, especially when they experience others seemingly receiving undeserved favoritism.

But here the parable teaches us a deeper truth about God’s love and grace: God’s mercy surpasses human notions of fairness. While the older son thinks in terms of merit, the father acts out of love and grace. The Gospel is not based on performance or merits but on undeserved grace. God’s love is generous and all-encompassing; it does not adhere to human standards of justice but is based on compassion and forgiveness.

The role of the older son shows that self-righteousness and a performance-oriented mindset can prevent us from recognizing God’s true nature. It reveals that even those who have “always stayed with the father” risk misunderstanding God’s love if they place themselves above others. God’s grace is not just or fair in the human sense—it is overflowing, unconditional, and accessible to everyone, regardless of past behavior.

The parable invites us to question our own notions of justice and to be shaped by God’s boundless love. It challenges us not to remain in envy or self-righteousness but to rejoice in the grace that others receive just as we do.

The message of the Parable of the Prodigal Son has a direct and profound connection to our everyday lives and our faith. It challenges us to rethink our attitude toward others and toward God and to apply it practically in our daily lives.

1. Dealing with Mistakes and Forgiveness

   In everyday life, we often encounter situations where people make mistakes—whether in personal relationships, family, at work, or in the community. The parable encourages us to greet people who have made mistakes with open arms instead of permanently condemning them for their transgressions. Just as the father meets his lost son with love, we should be ready to forgive and give people a second chance.

2. Questioning Self-Righteousness

   Many people tend to compare themselves with others. Those who work hard or are active in the church might wonder why others who contribute less receive the same recognition or love. The older son’s reaction mirrors this attitude. In everyday life, the parable invites us to question our own self-righteousness: Do we serve out of love or out of a desire for recognition? Do we understand that God’s love is for everyone, regardless of their achievements?

3. Compassion Instead of Envy

   The father’s joy over the return of the lost son calls us to also rejoice in the happiness and successes of others, even if we feel that they do not “deserve” them. In everyday life, this can mean not looking at others with envy but being grateful for our own lives and showing compassion for others.

4. Accepting God’s Grace

   The parable also shows that we do not need to be perfect to be accepted by God. Many people struggle with feelings of guilt and believe that they are “not good enough” for God. The lost son demonstrates that repentance and the desire for reconciliation are sufficient. In everyday life, this means accepting God’s grace and forgiveness for ourselves instead of being paralyzed by guilt.

5. Living an Open Community

   In churches or communities, we often experience conflicts between long-standing members and new or returning people. The parable calls us to be an open and welcoming community that accepts everyone, regardless of their past. It reminds us not to think in groups but to remain connected in God’s love.

6. Active Charity

   Finally, the parable calls us to actively practice mercy. This can happen in everyday life through small gestures of help, comfort, or support. God’s love is not passive but full of compassion and action—and so should we act in the world.

In Summary:
The parable shows us that in our daily lives, we are called to reflect God’s infinite love—through forgiveness, compassion, and unconditional acceptance. It encourages us to act fairly but not self-righteously and reminds us that we are all more valuable than we can imagine through God’s grace.

God’s love is boundless—it welcomes us with open arms, no matter how far we have strayed.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-3-to-be-pleasing-to-god-3-1-more-valuable-than-you-can-imagine-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/

January 12, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Galatians Chapter 4

¹ Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all;

² But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father.

³ Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world:

⁴ But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,

⁵ To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.

⁶ And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.

⁷ Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.

⁸ Howbeit then, when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods.

⁹ But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage?

¹⁰ Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years.

¹¹ I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain.

¹² Brethren, I beseech you, be as I am; for I am as ye are: ye have not injured me at all.

¹³ Ye know how through infirmity of the flesh I preached the gospel unto you at the first.

¹⁴ And my temptation which was in my flesh ye despised not, nor rejected; but received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus.

¹⁵ Where is then the blessedness ye spake of? for I bear you record, that, if it had been possible, ye would have plucked out your own eyes, and have given them to me.

¹⁶ Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth?

¹⁷ They zealously affect you, but not well; yea, they would exclude you, that ye might affect them.

¹⁸ But it is good to be zealously affected always in a good thing, and not only when I am present with you.

¹⁹ My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you,

²⁰ I desire to be present with you now, and to change my voice; for I stand in doubt of you.

²¹ Tell me, ye that desire to be under the law, do ye not hear the law?

²² For it is written, that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a freewoman.

²³ But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but he of the freewoman was by promise.

²⁴ Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar.

²⁵ For this Agar is mount Sinai in Arabia, and answereth to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children.

²⁶ But Jerusalem which is above is free, which is the mother of us all.

²⁷ For it is written, Rejoice, thou barren that bearest not; break forth and cry, thou that travailest not: for the desolate hath many more children than she which hath an husband.

²⁸ Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise.

²⁹ But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now.

³⁰ Nevertheless what saith the scripture? Cast out the bondwoman and her son: for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the freewoman.

³¹ So then, brethren, we are not children of the bondwoman, but of the free.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction:

In Galatians Chapter 4, Paul continues his argument on the theme of freedom in Christ, contrasting the bondage of the law with the freedom of being God’s children. He explains that Christians in Christ are no longer slaves to the law but have received full rights as sons and daughters of God. Paul uses the image of inheritance to illustrate how believers, who were once under guardianship, have now received the promised freedoms through the coming of Christ. At the same time, he warns the Galatians against turning back to the law and relying on its rituals, urging them to remain in the freedom they have received in Christ.

Commentary:

Freedom from the Law (Verses 1–7):
Paul begins with an example of inheritance. As long as an heir is a minor, he is no different from a slave, even though he owns everything. Similarly, believers, before knowing Christ, were enslaved under the external ordinances of the law. But when the time had fully come, God sent His Son to redeem those under the law and to grant believers adoption as God’s children. As children of God, they have received the Spirit of His Son, who brings them into a relationship with the Father.

Warning Against Returning to Legalism (Verses 8–20):
Paul reminds the Galatians that when they did not know God, they served false gods. Now that they know God, he questions why they are turning back to the weak and miserable principles of the law. He expresses concern that his work among them might have been in vain. He urges them to become like him—in freedom and faith in Christ. Paul recalls the difficult times when he preached the Gospel to them and reminds them of the joy and love they once felt.

Bondage and Freedom (Verses 21–31):
Paul draws a parallel between Abraham’s two sons: the son of the slave woman (Ishmael) and the son of the free woman (Isaac). Ishmael was born according to the flesh, while Isaac was born through the promise. Paul explains that these two sons represent two covenants: one leading to bondage (the law given on Mount Sinai) and the other leading to freedom (the promise fulfilled through Isaac and new birth in Christ). Believers, as children of the promise, are heirs of freedom, not of bondage.

Summary:

Galatians 4 highlights the liberation through Christ and warns against returning to legalism. Paul emphasizes that believers are no longer slaves to the law but have received God’s adoption and inheritance through faith in Christ. He calls on the Galatians to remain in this freedom and not to return to the weak and miserable principles of the law. Believers are children of the promise, not of bondage, and should not be influenced by false teachings that would lead them back into the captivity of legalism.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 87—“To My Father, and Your Father”
This chapter is based on Luke 24:50-53; Acts 1:9-12.
Read online here

 

Commentary

Introduction:

In Chapter 87 we learn about the final act of Jesus’ earthly life and His ascension into heaven. Jesus, having triumphed over death and sin, prepares to ascend to His Father in heaven. This moment marks the completion of His mission on Earth and the lasting promise of His presence in the hearts of believers. The place of His ascension—the Mount of Olives—is not merely a geographical location but a place rich with memories of Jesus’ life, prayers, and His struggle for humanity’s salvation. The ascension signifies the transition from Jesus as the suffering Redeemer to the triumphant King ascending to heaven.

Commentary:

Chapter 87 presents Jesus’ ascension as an act of victory and fulfillment. After completing His earthly mission and revealing Himself as the living Savior, He enters the heavenly realms. This moment is bittersweet for the disciples—filled with sorrow at parting from their Master but also with hope, as they now have confirmation of His victory over death. The Mount of Olives, once a place of Jesus’ prayers and struggles, now becomes the stage for His farewell. Yet, this farewell is not final; rather, it marks the beginning of a new era of hope. Jesus promises to remain with His followers and assures them that He will return one day in glory.

The angels affirm to the disciples that Jesus has not departed forever but will return in the same way they saw Him ascend. The image of heavenly hosts welcoming their King symbolizes Jesus’ future triumph at His second coming. Before this moment, Jesus raises His hands in blessing—a powerful affirmation of His presence and ongoing connection with the disciples. This blessing uplifts the disciples spiritually, filling them with joy and confidence in Christ’s continued presence and His role as their intercessor.

Summary:

Chapter 87 portrays Jesus’ ascension as a profound moment of exaltation and victory. The Mount of Olives, once a place of prayer and struggle, becomes the setting for His glorious ascent into heaven. After offering His disciples comfort and the promise of His return, Jesus is taken up by a cloud, disappearing from their sight. The angels proclaim that Jesus will return in the same way. This event conveys a dual message to believers: the comfort and assurance of Christ’s ongoing presence and the hope of His glorious return. The disciples return to Jerusalem with newfound joy and confidence, their hearts filled with praise and gratitude for the living Christ, who continues to live and intercede for them.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/12-01-2025-galatians-chapter-4-believe-his-prophets/

1.Reflect on the above sentence: “The relationship between God and every person is so individual and comprehensive, as if there were no one else on earth He had to care for, no other person for whom He gave His beloved Son.” What comfort does this give you, and how should you live your life, knowing God’s closeness to you and His care for you? How can you learn to live with the reality of this wonderful promise? Imagine that you could truly believe it day by day.

The thought that God’s relationship with each person is so individual and comprehensive, as if there were no one else, is a source of deep comfort. It shows us that in God’s eyes, we are not just one of many but are unique and infinitely valuable. This thought not only changes how we think about God but also how we can live our lives.

1. The Comfort of This Promise

• God’s Closeness and Care: The idea that God knows and loves us so intimately provides us with security and comfort, even in difficult times. We can be assured that God sees our lives, understands us, and walks with us.

• Personal Significance: This love makes our lives valuable. It shows us that we do not exist by chance but are intentionally created and loved.

• Grace and Forgiveness: It reminds us that God gave His Son for us—a sacrifice that stems from His boundless love.

2. Impact on Our Lives

• A Life of Trust: Believing in God’s care allows us to face challenges with confidence and courage, knowing that we are never alone.

• Developing Gratitude: This knowledge should lead us to live our lives with a grateful attitude—for God’s love, His closeness, and His plan.

• Passing on Love: Experiencing how much we are loved motivates us to pass on this love to others—through forgiveness, compassion, and helpfulness.

3. Learning to Live with This Promise

• Daily Prayer and Reflection: Start each day with a conscious prayer that centers this truth: “God, I am valuable to You, and I trust in Your closeness.”

• Internalizing Bible Verses: Read and meditate on verses like Psalm 139:13–16 or Romans 8:38–39, which emphasize God’s closeness and love.

• Small Steps of Faith: Act consciously out of the trust that God knows and guides you—whether by surrendering worries or trusting in His leadership.

• Seeking Community: Share this truth with other believers. It helps to be reminded together of God’s individual care.

4. Imagine Believing It Day by Day

Imagine what a daily life would look like if you fully embraced the reality of God’s closeness and love:

• Less Burdened by Fear or Worries: Knowing that God knows you and has a plan alleviates anxiety and fear.

• Patience and Love in Relationships: Your relationships would be characterized by patience and love, feeling supported by God’s love.

• Joy and Peace Regardless of Circumstances: You could experience joy and peace irrespective of external circumstances because you feel secure in God’s hands.

Summary:

This promise reminds us that God’s love is personal and perfect. It invites us to live our lives with trust, gratitude, and joy, knowing that we are in His presence. Believing in this truth day by day would not only bring us comfort but also foster a deeper relationship with God and a fulfilling daily life.

2.How do you understand Psalm 103:17–18 in light of this week’s study reflection? What does it say about God’s love being eternal and that the benefits of a relationship with God depend on whether we accept His love?

Psalm 103:17–18 reads: “But from everlasting to everlasting the Lord’s love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children’s children— with those who keep his covenant and remember to obey his precepts.”

This passage emphasizes two central themes discussed in this week’s study: the eternity of God’s love and the conditions for the blessings of a relationship with God.

1. God’s Love is Eternal and Unchanging

• Everlasting Grace: God’s love and grace are not limited by time or circumstances. They are steadfast and endure forever. This love is a gift defined by His nature, regardless of our behavior.

• Personal Comfort: The thought that God’s love endures forever is a source of hope and comfort, especially in times of uncertainty.

2. The Benefits of the Relationship Depend on Our Response

• “With Those Who Fear Him”: God’s eternal love works especially in those who respect, honor, and trust Him. “Fear” in this context means a reverent attitude of devotion, demonstrated through obedience.

• Covenant Faithfulness: The passage reminds us that the blessings and benefits of a relationship with God—such as protection, guidance, and righteousness—depend on our willingness to keep His covenant and follow His commandments.

• Our Responsibility: God’s love remains, but its full effect in our lives unfolds when we accept it and act accordingly. This reflects the theme of “conditional blessings” highlighted this week.

3. Connection with the Study Reflection

• Unwavering Love: The study reflection showed that God’s love never ends, even when people reject it or turn away. However, the benefits of this love—peace, joy, protection, eternal life—are tied to our response.

• Obedience as a Response: Psalm 103:17–18 emphasizes that obedience and covenant faithfulness are not the cause of God’s love but our response to it to experience its blessings.

4. Practical Significance for Our Lives

• Cultivating Gratitude: The eternity of God’s love should fill us with deep gratitude. We can be certain that His love never leaves us.

• Living in Obedience: These verses remind us that our faith should not only be in words but also in actions. Obedience is our response to His love.

• Showing Love to Others: The eternity of God’s love inspires us to make this love visible in our relationships, especially through patience, forgiveness, and neighborly love.

Summary

Psalm 103:17–18 affirms that God’s love is eternal and remains unchanged despite our shortcomings. However, the blessings and benefits of a close relationship with God depend on whether we accept His love and respond by keeping His covenant and obeying His commandments. This truth calls us not only to appreciate God’s love but also to live it out and share it in our lives.

3.How does this knowledge affect your relationship with God? How does it affect the way you think about others’ sorrows?

Impact of This Knowledge on Our Relationship with God and Our View of Others’ Sorrows

1. Impact on the Relationship with God

• Deepened Trust: Knowing that God’s love is eternal and that He seeks a personal relationship with us strengthens our trust. It assures us that we can always return to Him, even when we fail.

• Gratitude and Praise: Realizing that God’s love is independent of our performance inspires gratitude. This gratitude leads to a life of praise and devotion.

• Obedience Out of Love: Obedience is no longer seen as a duty but as a response to His immeasurable love. It changes our motivation to follow Him and stay close to Him.

• Deep Prayer Relationship: Understanding God’s closeness and care invites us to build a deeper, more honest relationship with Him through prayer and reflection.

2. Impact on the View of Others’ Sorrows

• Compassion Instead of Judgment: Realizing how much God loves us despite our flaws helps us to be more compassionate towards others. We learn to view others’ sorrows without prejudice and support them in their vulnerability.

• Practical Help: God’s love calls us to not just watch but actively help. Whether it’s offering comfort, listening, or providing practical support—we act from a place of love.

• Passing on Hope: Knowing that God’s love endures even in the darkest times allows us to give hope to others. Our words and actions become a testimony to the transformative power of His love.

• Patience and Understanding: Understanding that God’s love sustains us despite our mistakes inspires us to be patient with others, even when they struggle to find comfort or hope.

3. Practical Changes

• In the Relationship with God:

  • Daily Prayer: Expressing our gratitude for His love in daily prayers.

  • Regular Bible Reading: Reading the Bible regularly to better understand and internalize His promises.

• In the Relationship with Others:

  • Conscious Listening: Taking intentional time to listen and understand others’ sorrows.

  • Visible Love and Support: Demonstrating love and support not just in words but also through practical actions.

  • Praying for Those Who Suffer: Praying for those who are suffering and showing them that they are secure in God’s love.

Summary

The knowledge of God’s eternal love deepens our relationship with Him, characterized by trust, gratitude, and obedience. Simultaneously, it teaches us to approach others’ sorrows with compassion and patience. We are called to carry God’s love into the world—through compassion, practical help, and sharing hope.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-2-covenant-love-2-7-questions-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/