I Am Loved
What a wonderful time of year—Christmas. I do not know if John had Christmas in mind when he wrote 1 John 3:1 “Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God!” However, since the same apostle wrote John 3:16 it stands to reason that the love of God was never far from his mind.
It is foreign to me that so many, this time of year, wonder if they are loved by God. Let’s settle the issue. “God is love,” (1 John 4:8). To clear your doubts, just follow Christ through the Scriptures from the manger to the cross. Knowing that all he did for you he did because he loved you. On the cross He took your sin that you might have his righteousness. He died your death that you might live His life.
I can look forward to today and a new year along with all the wonderful possibilities that come with it because the God who is love—loves me. I pray you have a Christmas Day filled and flooded with the love of God.
Mike Runion
About Mike Dr. W. Mike Runion is the Senior Pastor of City View First Baptist Church in Greenville, South Carolina. He and his wife, Gail, have served churches in North and South Carolina. A native of Greer, South Carolina, Dr. Runion holds degrees from North Greenville University (A.A., B.A.) and Southeastern Theological Seminary (M.Div., D.Min. in Expository Preaching). Dr. Runion has preached in churches, crusades, and revivals throughout North and South Carolina. In addition, he has served preaching alongside missionaries in foreign lands: Russia, Novgorod, and Chechulino. Romania, Cluj-Napoca, Bistrita-Nasaud, and Campia-Turzi. Brazil, Bocaiuva Do Sul. Indonesia, and Haiti.