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January 26 “In that day you will ask in My name, and I do not say to that I will request the Father on your behalf; for the Father Himself loves you, because you have love Me, and have believed that I came forth from the Father.” John 16:26,27. We cannot place boundaries upon the love of God, and here, in this passage, we find that the Father loves us in a way that we did not expect. What is startling is the choice of the word ‘love.’ For we would expect that agapeo love would be used, but actually it is phileo, or brotherly love that is used. As some writers have expressed it, God likes us. I am excited by this revelation. Yes, God likes me! And the basis for His liking me is that I love Jesus. My friends, do you see the welcoming idea behind all of this? God has actually chosen to regard us as family. We are in a precious, personal relationship with Him and His Son, Jesus. The link of faith in these revelations is that we realize that we are placed in Christ when we accept Him as Savior. God is dedicated to the creation of many sons and daughters who will enjoy all the merits of Christ. It is His ultimate purpose to form us into His image. Certainly the Father likes what He is doing and perfecting among us. Father, we are in awe of what You have set into motion. All is well in the family of God. We thrive there because You have given us Your nature and the power of the Holy Spirit. Thank You, and we dedicate this day to You and Your glory. We accept all of this in the precious name of Jesus. Amen. |
