Known by God
Verse of the Day
“But whoever loves God is known by God.”
Today’s Devotional
This verse comes from a place in the Bible where they are discussing whether or not it is lawful to eat food that has been sacrificed to idols. And the basic message here is…even if you know there is no harm in a behavior, what if that “harmless” behavior causes doubt or sin for a newer believer? And my question is, why is the sentence of this verse in the middle of this passage?
I’m going to insert a bigger piece of this section of Scripture from the New Living Translation. I think It’s interesting that Paul brings up the subject, then says a few things before he answers the question (which they had obviously asked prior to this letter.)
“Now regarding your question about food that has been offered to idols. Yes, we know that “we all have knowledge” about this issue. But while knowledge makes us feel important, it is love that strengthens the church. Anyone who claims to know all the answers doesn’t really know very much. But the person who loves God is the one whom God recognizes.” 1 Corinthians 8:1-3 NLT
Knowledge makes me feel important. Ouch.
Love strengthens the church. Yep, I agree with that.
The more I think I know, the less I actually know. The older I get, the truer that statement feels in my life. Especially where God is concerned.
Loving God is what matters. And loving God (which is being obedient) makes me known to Him and makes Him recognize me. Here’s my take on that… It’s like God is a school teacher and we are all His students. And God asks a question about what it really looks like to follow Him. We are all raising our hands and shouting out “churchy” answers hoping to win His favor. But over in the corner of the classroom is a student that isn’t participating in the debate. He is helping a new student who spilled something and got all wet and messy. He tells her that everything will be ok and that he will help her clean up the mess. She’s embarrassed so he tells her of a time when he felt embarrassed, and the story makes her giggle. And gives her hope. God hushes the barrage of “right” answers and points to the two in the corner. God smiles at the girl who is a mess, and places His hand on the one who is helping. “This” God says, “is what My love looks like. You don’t need to have all the answers. You need to be aware of the people around you so that you can see when one of them needs help. THAT is what My love looks like in you. Showing my love to others is how you follow Me.” And that is what I think it means for us to be known by God in this verse. Because we already know that God knows us, inside and out.
I think Paul’s point here is this: If something is difficult for a fellow believer, we should defer to them. We should be kind to where others are in their walk of faith. Because that is how we can show the love of God. He always meets us where we are, so that is what we should do for others.
Journal Prompts
Answer only the questions that seem relevant to you today.
How good are you at being observant of those around you?
Are you patient with other believers?
How have you tried to get God’s attention or favor?
How can you show God’s love to someone today? If you don’t know, ask Him to make it clear to you as you go through your day.