“I can’t make myself know God, but I can come to know him better. And because God is love, the more I come to know him, the more my love for him will grow. Love is a by-product of knowing. So I can spend this day loving God. And tomorrow I can seek to love him more. This is a live “rich toward God.’ “- John Ortberg
As John Ortberg concludes Chapter 2 of When the Game is Over, he cites Augustine. Augustine once said that seven words sum up ethics: “Love God, and do what you will.”
For the soul that loves God desires to do what God loves.
Thus, the “with-God” soul is rich, while the lonely soul is poor. God made you, Pastor Ortberg notes, because He wants to be with you. And you don’t have to wait. Therefore, you can choose to be with God throughout your day. Ask for His help as you work together. See Him in the people you meet. Most noteworthy, that includes the person you most dislike in the world. Also, hear His voice in what you read.
However, living for temporary things produces temporary satisfaction, fulfillment, and meaning. When it comes to an end, only a terrible emptiness remains. As a result, John astutely observes: “Wise people build their lives around what is eternal and squeeze in what is temporary.”
In conclusion, Pastor Ortberg offers these words:
“The day is coming when all our 401(k)s and our bank statements will be irrelevant. The titles on our resumes will no longer impress anyone. . . . All that will be left is love. That which was done out of love for God will last. Every human being you see is a cleverly disguised receptacle of eternity. You can take the love with you.”
Today’s question: How does love manifest itself in your life as a by-product of knowing God? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Scorekeepers – a powerful influence”
