Loving Unconditionally - Living Out God's Love

“Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping His covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love Him and keep his commandments.” (Deuteronomy 7:9, NIV)

As soon as I saw the two pink lines revealed on the little white strip, my heart changed. As my belly expanded and I felt them move, my affection grew. The excitement built as my husband Bryan and I decided on their names, hung up their clothes, and prepared the nursery. Though labor and delivery was painful, holding each of my children in my arms for the first time was worth it all. I’d sit for hours staring at their sweet faces and marveling at those tiny miracles. In these newborn stages, Will and Kate didn’t do much of anything except sleep, eat, and cry. Yet, I was head over heels in love with them.

Over the years our family of four has experienced many highs and lows. But our love for one another hasn’t changed. If anything, it has deepened over time. Regardless of their accomplishments or failures, my emotions toward them remain steadfast. There is nothing they can do to make me love them any more and nothing they can do to cause me to love them any less.

God’s affection for us is unconditional, too. His feelings don’t depend on the attitudes or actions of His beloved (you). Before He formed you in your mother’s womb, He adored you. Before you took your first breath, He delighted in you. Regardless of how you fail or succeed, He will never stop cherishing you. Rest assured – you are already loved.

One of the disciples, Peter, is a prime example of the Lord’s merciful and unconditional love. During the Last Supper, Peter proudly told Jesus that he was ready to die for him. But Jesus corrected Peter and told him that very night he would deny his Master to protect himself. Despite Jesus’ prediction, Peter asserted that he would never disown Christ. Yet, when frightened, he broke his promise three times. Unable to stand up for his Lord for even twelve hours, he had failed as a disciple and friend. When the rooster crowed, Peter realized what he had done and wept bitterly.

After Jesus died on the cross and was resurrected, He appeared to His disciples. As soon as Peter recognized Him, he jumped into the water and swam to Jesus on the shore. The risen Messiah did not scold the disciples for deserting Him. Instead, He prepared breakfast for them. When they finished eating, Jesus spoke to Peter and commissioned him specifically.

Jesus led Peter through an experience that would redeem the regret of his denial. Remember how Peter disowned Jesus three times? Accordingly, Jesus asked Peter three times if he loved Him. When Peter answered yes, Jesus told him to feed His sheep. The repetition of three was a symbol of grace applied. Peter did not miss this significance. He repented, and Jesus asked him again to commit his life to the Lord’s purposes.

Jesus’ first words to Peter were “Come, follow me,” and His last words to him were “You must follow me.” Every step of the way between those two challenges, Peter stumbled but never completely failed to continue onward. His life proves God’s unconditional love compensates for our conditional affections.

No matter what you have done or what you will do, He will never stop caring for you. The challenge for us is to embody this same devotion to the people in our lives. Can we continue loving when the rest of the world stops? With the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, we can extend the unconditional love to others He has bestowed upon us.

Lord, I know I’ve failed You. Forgive me for my rejection and denial of You. Thank You for loving me unconditionally despite what I do. I know You love me for who I am and not for what I can give You. Free me from the pressure to perform and strive for approval and acceptance. Help me to love You and the people in my life without conditions, limitations, reservations, or qualifications. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Is there a relationship where you have stopped loving? How can you keep loving?