“In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.” -1 John 4:9 (KJV)

There is a difference between saying you love someone and showing it.

God did not just speak love. He revealed it.

“This was manifested…”

That means it was made visible. Put on display. Brought out into the open where no one could miss it.

How did God show His love?

He sent His Son.

Not when we were at our best, but when we were at our worst. Not when we were reaching for Him, but when we were running from Him. God stepped into our broken world and gave what was most precious to Him so that we could receive what we could never earn.

“That we might live through him.”

That is more than just existing. That is real life. Full life. Eternal life. A life filled with purpose, peace, and hope.

You are not trying to earn God’s love today. You are living from it.

If you ever wonder how much God cares about you, do not look at your circumstances. Look at the cross. That is where love was proven once and for all.

You are loved. You are wanted. And through Jesus Christ, you have life.

And that kind of love will carry you through anything.