How does a young child love? A child’s love is pure, simple, and sincere. They trust without hesitation, give affection freely, and express their love with their whole heart. Whether it’s a hug after a long day, a drawing they made just for you, or simply wanting to be near you, a child’s love is genuine and unpretentious. This is the kind of love God desires from us as His children—an innocent and wholehearted love that flows naturally.
We are called to walk in love, just as children naturally express love for others. But this love isn’t merely an emotion or a fleeting feeling. It’s a daily choice, a commitment to love others the way God loves us. Ephesians 5:2 instructs us to “walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savour.”
So, how much love are we called to give? The Bible sets the standard high—love others because Christ has loved us enough to give Himself as an offering for our sins. Christ’s love was sacrificial, and He gave everything for our sake. This is the kind of love we are called to imitate.
Our love for others must also be sacrificial. It must cost us something as we give of ourselves. True love isn’t about what we can gain, but about what we can give. Whether it’s our time, resources, or even our pride, loving others means putting their needs ahead of our own, just as Christ did for us.
As we follow God as His dear children, let us remember that love is more than a feeling—it’s an action, a choice, and it’s a sacrifice. As we continue to grow in our walk with God, may we strive to love others with the same depth and sincerity that a child loves their parent, and with the same sacrificial love that Christ has shown us.
In the next post, we will explore the theme of thankfulness and how a grateful heart is an essential part of walking as followers of God.
