"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
—Romans 8:38-39 (NIV)
As Valentine's Day approaches this week, I’ve been thinking about what real, lasting love looks like. Romantic love can be amazing, and it can also be messy and sometimes comes with heartache. But there’s one love that never changes, never gives up, and never runs out—God’s love.
God’s love isn’t like anything else we experience. It doesn’t depend on whether we have it all together. It doesn’t fade when we make mistakes. His love is steady, strong, and always there. Here are five things to hold onto when thinking about God’s love this week.
God's Love is Unconditional
In so many relationships, love feels like something we have to earn. We try to say the right things, do the right things, and be the person others expect us to be. But God loves us exactly as we are. Before we ever turned toward him, he was already reaching out to us. His love isn't based on our goodness but on his goodness.
God's Love is Sacrificial
The deepest kind of love gives without expecting anything in return. That’s the kind of love Jesus showed when he gave his life for us. Romans 5:8 says, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” His love isn’t just words—it’s action. He gave everything so we could know that love fully.
God's Love is With Us in Hard Times
When life gets heavy, it’s easy to wonder where God is. But his love isn’t just for the good days—it’s for the hard ones too. Psalm 34:18 reminds us, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” He may not take away every struggle, but he promises to be right there in the middle of it with us.
God's Love Changes Us
Real love doesn't leave us the same. When we truly know God loves us, it changes the way we see ourselves and the ways we interact with others. His love shapes us, heals us, and helps us become more like Jesus.
God's Love Brings Us Together
One of the most beautiful things about God’s love is that it connects us. His love reminds us that we belong—not just to him, but to each other. When we live in his love, we learn to love one another as he loves us. With his love, we can forgive more easily, encourage more often, and walk alongside each other through life’s ups and downs. His love creates family, even among people who seem to have nothing in common.
Let's thank God for his incredible love this week! I am so glad I see it lived out in our life and ministry together! Jesus loves you, Union Family, and I do too!