How does 1 Thessalonians 4:9 encourage us to love others more deeply? Love That Comes Straight From God “Now about brotherly love, you have no need for anyone to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love one another.” (1 Thessalonians 4:9) • “Taught by God” tells us the ultimate source of genuine love. • Because God Himself is the Teacher, this love is not optional or cultural; it is divine instruction. • Paul affirms the believers already know this, yet the reminder calls them (and us) to keep pressing deeper. Why God’s Direct Teaching Matters • It guarantees that the command to love is perfect, authoritative, and never outdated. • It carries the full weight of God’s character—“God is love” (1 John 4:8). • It ensures we can obey because His Spirit pours His love into our hearts (Romans 5:5). Practical Ways to Love More Deeply • Let God’s love set the pace—daily ask Him to enlarge your heart (2 Corinthians 5:14). • Serve before you’re asked; Jesus washed feet without waiting for permission (John 13:14-15). • Speak words that build up, not tear down (Ephesians 4:29). • Give generously; love is tangible (1 John 3:17-18). • Forgive quickly, mirroring Christ’s forgiveness of you (Colossians 3:13). Love That Keeps Growing Verse 10 (immediately following) urges, “excel more and more.” God-taught love never plateaus. • Stretch beyond familiar circles—include “all the brothers…throughout Macedonia” (v. 10). • Seek unity in the local church (Ephesians 4:3). • Remember that maturity is measured by increasing love (1 Peter 1:22). Other Passages That Echo the Call • John 13:34-35—Love is the badge of discipleship. • 1 John 4:19—We love because He first loved us. • Philippians 2:1-4—Consider others above yourself. • Hebrews 13:1—“Let brotherly love continue.” Living It Out Today • Start with worship: adore the God who teaches love. • Saturate your mind with Scripture so His instruction shapes every interaction. • Act immediately on promptings to encourage, give, or serve—obedience cements learning. • Evaluate your love’s reach each week: is it broader, deeper, more sacrificial? • Trust that the same God who commands love also empowers it (1 Thessalonians 5:24). By receiving God’s direct instruction and leaning on His enabling power, we move beyond basic friendliness into a Christ-like, ever-expanding love that transforms relationships and reflects His heart to the world. |
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