True Love: Does it Exist? (NIV)

What Is True Love? Wish you could find a love that is not based on looks, performance, lust, or selfishness? Love that is pure, self sacrificing, kind, patient, and accepting. Sure you do—we all do. There is something in us that tells us that “true love” exists, but where can it be found? You have most likely heard the answer, but never taken the time to think about it. God is love and He proved His love for us. What Has He Done For Me? God showed His love by what He did. “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13). His love for you put Jesus on the cross. “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). He gave us His best. “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). God’s Love Gives Us A Choice God gave man a free will. He laid out His plan by sending His Son and giving us His Word. He did this so we would know how He thinks and what He wants. We were created to live forever. We will all spend eternity somewhere. God wants us to choose life. “This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses … I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live” (Deuteronomy 30:19). Think beyond your few years here on earth. Please don’t ignore something as important as your own soul. God has created a beautiful heaven that He wants to share with you. “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away” (Revelation 21:4). This is your responsibility. No one else’s. You must choose to trust Him. God has done the hard part by paying for your sins by giving up His only Son to suffer and die in your place. What Do I Do Now? Spend time alone with God. Get a Bible and get to know Him and what He has said. Talk to Him and you can pray something like this: “Dear Jesus, I need to know You—I want the true love that You have for me. Please forgive me for my sins. I accept what you did on the cross for me. Come into my life and help me, teach me, and show me who You are. I give myself to you. Amen.” Find others that are seeking Him too. Your journey can begin today. True Love is waiting for you.