Thoughts in Worship

Message Magazine's Online Devotional for Sabbath, August 6, 2016

We are focusing on getting to know God from the perspective of John the beloved.

Today’s Scripture Focus: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.” (John 3:16–17).

Love is probably one of the least understood principles in societies all around the world. Notice that I did not say that love was a misunderstood term, feeling, or notion. Love, more than a mere notion, is fundamental to our very existence. The Bible says, "God is love" (1 John 4:8, 16). This is why its value is diminished in our consciousness when we make comments like, "I love your hair style" or "I love what you have done with this place." Oftentimes people that are engaged in ungodly activities with one another falsely convince themselves that what they are doing is a manifestation of love. The Most High, who is our Creator, is the self-proclaimed Essence of love. Thus it is that love is holy and fundamental to our existence. Godly love cannot be separated from His creation.

Have you wondered for what purpose you were created? Have you ever dreamed of the great things you might do, given the opportunity? Perhaps you see the vivid colors and shapes in nature, such that you dream of being a renowned artist or painter. Perhaps the human body so intrigues you that you want to show your appreciation by becoming a world-class surgeon. It is also possible that you love children and respect the gift they are to us, such that you want to provide the very best care for as many as the Lord allows. Whether you have great dreams and aspirations for yourself or not, our Heavenly Father does! He said, "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end” (Jeremiah 29:11).

I am certain it is no secret to you, that many things in our present world, seem not to fit Jeremiah's description of God's thoughts toward us. Where is the peace, when so many are dying in our communities from senseless violence? Where are those fond thoughts against evil God says He has when jobs are scarce, and kind-hearted people are even more scarce? How am I supposed to believe that God loves me when lady justice seems always to be peeking through her blindfold to let the wicked off the hook while the few seemingly good-hearted people in the world are unfairly punished? How can I be assured that God loves me when I have done so many shameful things that make me unlovable?

Take courage, dear friends, and do remember that godly love is fundamental to our existence. The God who created us with love and gave us the desire to thrive and succeed is the same One who sees all of the turmoil of this present age. Not only does He see our trials, but our theme text also says that He loved us so much, that He gave us the most precious Gift the universe has ever seen. God loved us so much that He gave His only Son to die in our place, so one day we can begin to live in eternity with Him. Eternity with Him will be without sin, crime, trials, temptations, disease, or distress. And time, resources, or imagination will not limit those aspirations we have, though they will look different in a perfect world. As Jesus completed His earthly mission 2,000 years ago, He embarked upon His heavenly mission. To His loved ones He said, “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also” (John 14:1–3). Jesus is coming very soon to take those who love Him into the special place He has prepared...