Good morning. Today is Saturday, August 1st.

🥳 Congratulations on starting today with God, and thank you for letting us be a part of it.

— 1 John 4:10

When people think about love, they often think of romance, family, or close friendships. Those are some of the greatest gifts God has given us. But the Bible points us to a love that is even greater.

Jesus said,

“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (John 15:13, NIV)

Then He did exactly that.

Romans 5:8 says,

“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

Notice what Paul doesn’t say. He doesn’t say Christ died for us after we cleaned up our lives or proved we loved Him. God’s love came first. While we were still sinners, Jesus willingly went to the cross.

Then Paul adds another incredible detail. Just two verses later he says we were God’s enemies (Romans 5:10). Think about that. Jesus said the greatest love is laying down your life for your friends, yet He laid down His life for people who were still rebelling against Him. He died so His enemies could become His children.

The apostle John makes the same point:

“This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” (1 John 4:10, NIV)

John doesn’t say this is an example of love. He says, “This is love.” If you want to know what love truly looks like, the Bible points you to the cross.

That’s also why John writes, “God is love” (1 John 4:8). Love isn’t just something God does. It’s part of who He is. His love is faithful, sacrificial, and completely undeserved.

That doesn’t mean God overlooked our sin. Because He loves us, He dealt with it. At the cross, God’s justice was satisfied and His love was put on full display.

If you ever wonder how much God loves you, don’t start with your circumstances. Start with the cross. It is the greatest demonstration of love the world has ever seen.

As John writes, “We love because he first loved us.” (1 John 4:19, NIV)

When you’re not sure how to pray, A.C.T.S. gives you a simple path to follow: Adore, Confess, Thank, and Ask.

Adoration: Father, thank You for loving me with a perfect love.

Confession: Forgive me for doubting Your love or looking elsewhere for it.

Thanksgiving: Thank You for the cross and for loving me first.

Supplication: Help me rest in Your love and share it with others today.

In Jesus’ name, Amen

“Build My Life” by Pat Barrett

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Thanks for letting us be a part of how you start your day with God.

See you tomorrow,

Zach | Start With God