THE FORCE OF LOVE
In Matthew 22:34-40, we conclude our series titled “The Blessed Man.” While this series reaches its conclusion today, we trust that the blessings of God will continue to manifest in our lives abundantly, in the precious name of Jesus. I will begin by reading from Matthew 22:34, but I would like to encourage those who have not attended church recently to acquire the CDs of this message or purchase the complete series after today, so you can listen to it repeatedly. Our exploration of “The Blessed Man” commenced with Psalm 1:1-3, which serves as a foundational scripture for our church’s closing charge. The passage states, “Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the ungodly, nor sit in the seat of the scornful, nor walk in the path of sinners; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law, he meditates day and night.” Verse 3 further illustrates that such a man will be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, yielding fruit in its season, with leaves that do not wither, and whatever he does shall prosper. This encapsulates the essence of the blessed man.
Throughout this series, we have emphasized that the concept of blessing transcends mere financial wealth; while material possessions like money and a large house may be byproducts, the true essence of blessing is spiritual. It represents an empowerment to thrive, live a fulfilling life, and effectively represent God. We have discussed various attributes of the blessed man, including the possession of spiritual authority, which enables him to exercise that authority in his life. A few weeks ago, we highlighted that a blessed man enjoys a profound relationship with the Holy Spirit, granting him access to divine assistance. Jesus promised to send a helper, and the blessed man is never alone; he is fortified by this divine support, which is a testament to his blessed state.
The concept of being blessed encompasses the enjoyment of divine assistance, which signifies access to support that transcends the natural world. A blessed individual is endowed with the ability to draw upon wisdom that is not merely earthly but divinely inspired. This spiritual wisdom, as discussed in previous teachings, allows the blessed person to make decisions informed by divine signals, resulting in sound judgment. Furthermore, it has been emphasized that if one is dissatisfied with the outcomes in their life, they must consider altering the foundational elements, or “seeds,” that they are planting. The blessed individual is never left without options, as they are likened to a tree firmly rooted by the waters, yielding fruit in its appropriate season. To produce such fruit, it is essential to sow the right seeds, which, according to the Parable of the Sower, are identified as the words of God. By embedding these divine words in one’s heart, one can expect to reap favorable results.
The blessed person does not adopt a passive attitude of resignation, epitomized by the phrase “que sera sera,” which implies a lack of agency over one’s circumstances. Instead, the blessed individual recognizes their authority, as articulated by Jesus, who stated that whatever is bound or loosed on earth will reflect in heaven. This perspective empowers the blessed person to assertively shape their reality, believing that they can reject illness and claim health, rather than accepting suffering as a predetermined fate. As I conclude this series of teachings, I will focus on the blessed individual and their strategic engagement with the force of love, exploring how this powerful principle can be maximized in their lives. My initial reference will be drawn from what is commonly referred to as the Great Commandment, which serves as a foundational guideline for understanding the dynamics of love in the context of being blessed.
The Great Commandment serves as one of the foundational principles of Christianity, prominently featured in the New Testament alongside the Great Commission. The Great Commandment is articulated in the Gospel of Matthew, specifically in chapter 22, where Jesus is approached by a lawyer who seeks to test Him by asking which commandment holds the greatest significance. In response, Jesus emphasizes the paramount importance of love, stating that one must love the Lord with all one’s heart, soul, and mind, which He identifies as the foremost commandment. He further elaborates that the second commandment, which is akin to the first, is to love one’s neighbor as oneself. Jesus asserts that these two commandments encapsulate the essence of the law and the teachings of the prophets, underscoring the centrality of love in the Christian faith.
To reinforce the message conveyed in Matthew 22, one can refer to Romans 13:8, where the Apostle Paul echoes the sentiment that love is the fulfillment of the law. In this passage, Paul instructs believers to owe nothing to anyone except love, highlighting that genuine love for others inherently fulfills the requirements of the law. He lists various commandments, such as prohibitions against adultery, murder, and theft, concluding that all these directives are encompassed in the command to love one’s neighbor as oneself. The assertion that love does no harm to a neighbor further solidifies the idea that love is not merely an emotion but a guiding principle that fulfills the law’s intent. Thus, love emerges as one of the most powerful forces in existence, shaping moral conduct and fostering community among individuals.
The power of love is immensely profound. When God sought to restore humanity to Himself, He did not resort to coercion or intimidation; He did not wield a weapon to instill fear. Despite possessing absolute authority over our will—illustrated by the biblical assertion that the hearts of kings are in His control—He chose to grant us the gift of free will. His approach was one of love, aiming to draw us into submission through affection rather than force. This is encapsulated in John 3:16, which states that God loved the world so deeply that He sacrificed His only Son, offering eternal life to all who believe in Him. His intention is not to dominate or exert authority over us, but rather to envelop us in love, guiding us gently towards a life of fulfillment.
Love is arguably one of the most compelling forces in existence, as it naturally attracts individuals.
When love emanates from a genuine heart, it creates an irresistible pull that draws people closer. In environments filled with love, joy and peace flourish, fostering a celebratory atmosphere that everyone yearns to be part of. Conversely, the absence of love can lead to distress and discontent, prompting individuals to flee from places devoid of affection. This lack of love can have detrimental effects, particularly on children, who may exhibit behavioral issues when raised in loveless homes. The nurturing environment of love is essential for personal development and emotional stability, as it lays the foundation for a prosperous life. Jesus emphasized this principle when asked about the greatest commandments, stating simply that we should love God wholeheartedly and love our neighbors as ourselves, highlighting the shift from a rigid religious framework to a more profound understanding of love as the essence of our existence.
Religion can be understood as humanity’s pursuit of the divine, characterized by a desire to engage in practices that are pleasing to God. In contrast, New Testament Christianity presents a paradigm shift where God actively seeks out humanity. This distinction highlights that true systemic Christianity transcends the conventional definition of religion, which is primarily about human efforts to reach God. The essence of New Testament Christianity is encapsulated in the notion that God first loved us, as articulated in the scriptures. This foundational truth emphasizes that it is not humanity’s love for God that defines the relationship, but rather God’s initiative in seeking us out, thereby establishing a profound connection that redefines the nature of faith.
In the Old Testament, the relationship between God and humanity was heavily governed by a multitude of laws and regulations, which dictated every aspect of life, from worship practices to personal conduct. The burden of these laws often made it exceedingly difficult for individuals to find favor with God, as compliance was seen as a laborious task. The severity of the consequences for disobedience, such as the punishment for failing to observe the Sabbath, illustrates the stringent nature of this covenant. However, with the arrival of Jesus, a transformative message emerged: He did not come to abolish the law but to fulfill it. This fulfillment is rooted in the principle of love, which serves as the cornerstone of the new covenant. The blessed individual is one who embodies this love—love for God, love for others, and love for oneself—thereby embracing the three dimensions of love that are essential to genuine faith.
The highest dimension of existence is characterized by the love of God, which should always occupy the foremost position in our lives. A truly blessed individual is one who acknowledges God’s rightful place in the grand design of their life, prioritizing Him accordingly and wholeheartedly embracing His love. According to Romans 5:5, the love of God has been abundantly poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit bestowed upon us. Therefore, for those who are in Christ Jesus, it is impossible to claim a lack of God’s love. This divine love is accessible to all believers, regardless of whether they choose to accept it. Being in Christ endows individuals with the capacity to express love across three distinct dimensions, and by doing so, they fulfill the law and fully realize the grace available to them.
In the current era of grace, the maximization of this grace is contingent upon our willingness to embrace love in its various forms. The fulfillment of the law through love is a profound concept, as it suggests that love transcends legalistic constraints. To illustrate this, one might consider the legal immunity granted to the president of Nigeria, which protects them from lawsuits. This principle of immunity raises questions about the scope of power and accountability within the government, as evidenced by ongoing legal disputes involving the National Assembly. Similarly, when Jesus proclaimed His mission to fulfill the law rather than abolish it, He indicated a higher way of living—one that transcends mere legal adherence. This perspective invites individuals to consider a life where love governs their actions, rendering them above the law in a spiritual sense, thus embodying the essence of divine grace.
It may be challenging to fully grasp the essence of my message, but it revolves around the idea that one can exist in a manner where the law does not govern their actions. The principle is straightforward: if I genuinely love my neighbor, there would be no reason for me to covet my neighbor’s spouse or their possessions. The moral imperatives, such as prohibitions against stealing and murder, are fundamentally based on the premise that true love for one’s neighbor precludes such harmful behaviors. Therefore, living in accordance with love transcends mere legal compliance; it embodies the essence of natural law. In this context, love serves as the ultimate fulfillment of the law, as it inherently does no harm to others. The teachings of New Testament Christianity emphasize our capacity to receive love, engage with this profound principle, and subsequently share that love within our communities.
The individual who acknowledges the significance of God’s love in their life is truly blessed.
It is essential to inquire of your neighbor whether they have experienced the love of God, for such an experience equips them with the ability to love in return. A regenerated spirit, one that has undergone a transformation through faith, possesses the inherent capacity to love and perform good deeds, mirroring the divine love of God. Conversely, the unregenerate spirit, or the natural man, is often inclined toward malevolence. Reflecting on my own journey, prior to my commitment to Christ, engaging in deceitful behavior felt instinctive; I could devise plans for wrongdoing without external influence. This inclination toward evil was as natural to me as the inclination to love should be for those who are in Christ. However, recognizing that love should come naturally requires a willingness to embrace that truth; otherwise, one may find justifications for failing to love as God intends.
The scripture in Romans chapter 8, verse 15, conveys a profound message regarding our relationship with God. It states that we have not been given a spirit of fear or bondage, but rather the spirit of adoption, which allows us to address God as “Abba, Father.” This term signifies an intimate and personal connection, akin to calling Him “Daddy.” Such a relationship instills a sense of confidence and security, much like the comfort a child feels when walking alongside a loving father. In this context, the presence of a father serves as a protective shield, fostering an environment where fear is absent and trust prevails. This analogy illustrates the depth of God’s love for us, which empowers us to approach Him without trepidation.
Furthermore, Galatians chapter 4, verse 6 reinforces this notion by affirming that, as children of God, we have received the spirit of His Son, enabling us to cry out “Abba, Father.” It is essential to recognize that this concept of sonship transcends gender, encompassing all believers in Christ. The distinguishing factor between those who know Jesus and those who do not lies in the presence of the Spirit of His Son, characterized fundamentally by love. Romans 5, verse 5 elaborates on this by stating that God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit. Therefore, it is crucial to acknowledge our inherent capacity to love, which is a gift from God. The truly blessed individual is one who embraces this ability and actively expresses love in their life.
I express this with great emphasis today because I understand that some individuals may struggle to grasp the essence of my message. When you survey your life, it becomes evident that numerous challenges obstruct your journey toward embracing this principle. Many individuals find it particularly challenging to accept the love of God, often due to a lack of love experienced in their own lives. It is easier to accept something that one has previously encountered; familiarity breeds understanding. It is perplexing to witness some people perceive God as unyielding and punitive, believing that past transgressions continue to invoke divine retribution. Such a mindset reflects a misunderstanding of the nature of God, which is not aligned with the teachings of New Testament Christianity.
The struggle to accept God’s love often stems from personal experiences, particularly for those who may not have received love during their formative years. When the very individuals who were meant to provide love have instead caused pain, it can create significant barriers to receiving divine affection. Today, I urge everyone to begin opening their hearts to the love of God. In our discussions about grace within the church, we draw inspiration from the words of the Apostle Paul in his letter to the Corinthians, where he articulates, “the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you always.” Paul’s message is rooted in his own profound experience of grace, serving as a reminder that understanding and accepting this love is essential for spiritual growth and healing.
The Scriptures convey the profound message of the grace bestowed by our Lord Jesus Christ, illustrating that despite His divine wealth, He embraced poverty so that through His sacrifice, humanity might attain spiritual richness. This encapsulates the essence of Jesus’ grace. In contrast, when the Apostle Paul addresses the nature of God, he emphasizes the theme of divine love. The Bible delineates a clear distinction between the law, which was delivered through Moses, and the grace and truth that emanate from Jesus Christ. While Jesus embodies grace, the discourse surrounding God often centers on His unwavering love, as exemplified in the well-known verse that proclaims God’s immense love for the world, leading Him to give sacrificially.
Reflecting on personal experiences, I recall a woman I counseled years ago who, burdened by the memory of a past abortion during her secondary school years, returned to my office fifteen years later, still grappling with guilt over her actions. I found myself urging her to recognize the biblical truth that God had forgiven her, emphasizing that He chooses to forget our transgressions. This illustrates the depth of His love, which is characterized by mercy and compassion, as He bestows blessings upon both the righteous and the wicked alike. God’s love is passionate and transformative; when one truly comprehends and accepts this love, they may begin to witness significant changes in their life. However, it is essential to acknowledge that individuals receive and process this love differently, often influenced by their upbringing and life circumstances. The three dimensions of love—loving God, loving one’s neighbor, and loving oneself—highlight that the most challenging aspect for many is self-love, followed closely by the love of others, while the love of God is generally more readily accepted, albeit not without its struggles.
In our expressions of devotion, we often sing praises to Him, yet we find ourselves grappling with the challenge of accepting His love. This struggle extends to our ability to love ourselves, despite the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized the importance of self-love alongside love for our neighbors. As we embark on a new series focused on healing and health, it is crucial to recognize that many individuals endure physical discomfort, such as persistent headaches, without taking the necessary steps to address their well-being. This neglect often stems from a lack of self-love; we may prioritize the needs of others, rushing to alleviate a child’s headache while tolerating our own pain for weeks. It is essential to ask ourselves what is preventing us from acknowledging our discomfort and seeking the care we deserve.
Moreover, many among us exhibit remarkable generosity, readily sharing our resources with others and contributing to the community and church. However, when it comes to investing in our own well-being, we may hesitate or feel guilty. A recent reading highlighted that true humility does not involve diminishing our self-worth but rather shifting our focus away from ourselves to better serve God and others. Jesus taught us to love God and our neighbors as we love ourselves, suggesting that a balanced perspective is vital for a fulfilling life. To truly embrace a blessed existence, one must accept God’s love, cultivate self-love, and extend that love to others. The born-again spirit within each of us possesses an immense, often untapped capacity for love, waiting to be realized and shared.
The teachings of Jesus, particularly those that encourage us to love our enemies and bless those who mistreat us, hinge on our inherent ability to embody such virtues. This capacity is not merely a product of our own will but is a divine gift bestowed upon us when we commit our lives to Christ. The Scriptures affirm that the Spirit of His Son resides within us, instilling a spirit of adoption that enables us to experience and reciprocate God’s love. However, this innate ability can be compromised if we allow our life experiences to dictate our capacity for love. It is essential to recognize that our circumstances should not define our ability to love; rather, we must strive to transcend them.
Reflecting on my personal journey, I recognize that my upbringing in a polygamous household significantly shaped my understanding of love. In such an environment, genuine affection was often elusive, confined to private moments rather than shared openly. The atmosphere was rife with envy and jealousy, where one had to navigate relationships with extreme caution. Vulnerability and openness were foreign concepts to me until I began to embrace the love of Christ. This transformative experience taught me the importance of not only receiving love but also sharing it freely with others. I learned to trust and connect with people, breaking free from the constraints of a past where secrecy and guardedness were the norms.
The question of whom to greet and whom to avoid can be quite complex, as social norms and personal experiences significantly influence our interactions. In certain environments, greeting someone may lead to unforeseen consequences, particularly within familial settings where expectations and past grievances can complicate relationships. The way one was raised and the cultural context in which one grew up play crucial roles in shaping these dynamics. It is not uncommon for individuals to grapple with feelings of resentment or disappointment, especially when those who are meant to provide love and support exhibit hostility or malice. This can lead to a profound sense of disconnection, even among siblings, where the bonds of kinship are overshadowed by negative experiences. However, it is essential to recognize that, despite these challenges, every individual possesses a remarkable capacity for love, as affirmed by spiritual teachings.
In the realm of personal relationships, particularly in marriage, it is inevitable that partners will encounter moments of hurt and misunderstanding. The notion that any couple can navigate their union without experiencing conflict is a fallacy; even the most harmonious relationships will face trials. It is a common reality that disagreements can arise from the most trivial of matters, as illustrated by the anecdote of a couple whose honeymoon was marred by a dispute that began at the airport. Such experiences serve as a reminder that love is not merely a feeling but a commitment that requires effort and resilience. Regardless of the difficulties one may face, it is crucial to embrace the inherent ability to love deeply and authentically, as this capacity is a fundamental aspect of the human experience.
It is essential to recognize the profound truth that one’s identity is not defined by past experiences or hardships, but rather by the affirmations found in the word of God. The notion that one is incapable of love due to previous disappointments is a misconception; in fact, the capacity to love is inherent and divinely bestowed. It is crucial to internalize this belief and allow it to manifest in one’s life. The love that flows from God is abundant and unending, a source that never runs dry. Each day presents a new opportunity to experience this love, as the steadfast love of the Lord is renewed every morning. Embracing this truth can lead to a transformative experience, filling one’s heart with the divine love that is always available.
Furthermore, the call to love one another is a fundamental tenet of faith, as articulated in the scriptures. The essence of knowing God is intertwined with the ability to love, for God is love itself. Engaging in spiritual practices such as speaking in tongues or prophesying holds little value if they are not accompanied by genuine love. The Apostle Paul emphasizes this in 1 Corinthians 13, where he asserts that without love, even the most eloquent expressions of faith become meaningless noise. Therefore, it is imperative to cultivate love in one’s life as a true reflection of one’s spirituality, ensuring that actions and words resonate with the profound love that God embodies.
Many individuals today exhibit the gift of prophecy with a sense of arrogance rather than love. This attitude often manifests in statements such as, “I can tell you your phone number,” which may seem impressive but lacks genuine compassion. The reality is that anyone, even a malevolent spirit, could potentially acquire such information. Furthermore, when prophetic utterances are made that cast others in a negative light, it raises concerns about the underlying intentions. While it is acknowledged that the Holy Spirit can indeed reveal truths, it is imperative to scrutinize our motives: are we acting out of love, or are we seeking personal recognition? It is essential to reflect on these questions as we navigate our spiritual journeys.
In light of this, it is crucial to recognize our inherent capacity to love, which is a fundamental aspect of our being. Embracing this capacity allows us to foster relationships with God, others, and ourselves. The teachings of 1 John 2:10-11 emphasize that love is synonymous with light, providing direction and clarity in our lives. When we harbor love in our hearts, we are less likely to stumble in our paths. Conversely, if we allow hatred to take root, we risk walking in darkness, which can lead to confusion and disorientation. The scripture warns that those who hate are blinded by darkness and lack awareness of their surroundings. Therefore, cultivating love is not merely a spiritual exercise; it is essential for receiving divine guidance and living a fulfilling life.
The question arises as to why one might harbor feelings of animosity towards others and choose to dwell in darkness. It is essential to recognize that the capacity for hatred exists within the natural human condition, allowing individuals to despise not only specific people but also the world around them. In contrast, a spiritually awakened individual, who is born of the spirit, possesses a profound ability to love. When one chooses to walk in hatred, they inevitably find themselves enveloped in darkness, which obstructs the light from illuminating their path. It is crucial to seek divine guidance and ensure that one is walking in love, as this will lead to clarity and direction in life. The scriptures affirm that the meek will receive guidance, and demonstrating humility through love for others is a vital aspect of this journey.
Furthermore, the Bible emphasizes that faith operates through love, as articulated in Galatians 5:6. If we liken faith to a vehicle, love serves as the essential fuel that propels it forward. Many individuals experience a faltering of their faith due to a lack of love in their hearts; their intentions may be misguided or self-serving. For instance, if one seeks financial blessings solely to exert power or control over others, such motives may hinder the fulfillment of their requests. The essence of true faith lies in its foundation of love, which should guide one’s desires and intentions. When approaching God with requests, it is imperative to ensure that one’s heart is free from any desire to harm or belittle others, allowing love to be the driving force behind every prayer and aspiration.
Are you still present with me today? I reiterate, are you still engaged with me today? When we approach God with requests stemming from envy towards others, it is important to recognize that such prayers often go unanswered. The Scriptures indicate that our faith operates effectively only when it is rooted in love. Furthermore, love has the power to diminish fear. If one desires to lead a life unencumbered by fear, it is essential to understand that a truly blessed individual harbors no fear of others. The Bible states, “The righteous is as bold as a lion.” When love resides in one’s heart, fear dissipates, rendering one impervious to harm. This concept is beautifully illustrated in 1 John 4:17-19, where it is expressed that love has been perfected among us, granting us confidence on the day of judgment, for as He is, so are we in this world. Verse 18 emphasizes that there is no fear in love; rather, perfect love expels fear, as fear is associated with torment. Those who experience fear have not yet attained perfection in love.
If one has indeed been perfected in love, there is no space for fear within the heart.
Our love for Him is a response to His initial love for us. Do you aspire to live a life liberated from fear? It is possible to cultivate a love for God and for humanity. I must clarify that this is not a boastful statement, but I possess a firm belief that I will not meet an untimely end, grounded in the promises of the Word of God. I frequently travel by air, and during moments of turbulence, I find solace in reminding myself of the worst-case scenario: should my time come, I would be welcomed into heaven, embraced by God’s love. If it is not my time, He will ensure my safe return. I have no fear of hell, so why should I fear death? I trust in the Lord’s control over my circumstances, and I find peace in surrendering to Him. Ultimately, no one is destined to live forever; thus, it is crucial to eradicate the fear of death from one’s heart.
The eradication of the fear of failure is a profound transformation that occurs when love is fully realized within one’s heart. I find myself indebted to no one except for the love I can offer. The love of God has reached its fullness in my heart, instilling a sense of courage that dispels any fear. The biblical principle asserts that perfect love expels fear, and I invite you to consider the possibility of living a life unencumbered by fear, where the assurance of God’s love protects you from harm. This divine love fosters goodwill towards all, rendering you untouchable by malevolent forces, as you rise above the constraints of worldly laws through the power of love.
When one operates from a place of love, there are no limitations or terms of service that govern their actions. Unlike a president who may enjoy a four-year term without the threat of legal repercussions, those who embody love are not bound by such temporal constraints. The scripture reminds us that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, who live according to the spirit rather than the flesh. The law of the spirit of life in Christ liberates us from the law of sin and death, and this law is fundamentally rooted in love. Therefore, I stand here today, free from fear, rejoicing in the love of Jesus. I encourage you to embrace this love, to acknowledge your identity as a vessel of love, and to recognize that there is no space in your heart for hatred, only for the divine love bestowed upon you.