Every One that Loveth is Born of God
Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. (1 John 4:7, KJV)
Imagine if love were a spiritual birthmark—an undeniable sign of belonging to God. Just as children bear physical traits from their parents, those born of God carry His nature, especially His love. But what does it mean to carry this mark? John’s words in 1 John 4:7 invite us to go beyond human love and see it as proof of God’s transformation in us.
When John says “everyone who loves is born of God,” he uses the Greek term agape, which describes a unique, divine love. Unlike other forms of love—eros (romantic) or phileo (brotherly)—agape is selfless and sacrificial, given without expectation. It reflects God’s love for us, shown most powerfully through Christ’s sacrifice. Such love isn’t something we can create on our own; it comes from God. When we love with agape, we are showing God’s own love through us.
The term “born of God” is from the Greek gennao, meaning to be generated or given life by another. Just as a child inherits traits from their parents, being “born of God” means inheriting His nature. Through faith in Christ, we receive this new life, allowing us to love as God loves. This is not simply about following rules or being morally good; it’s about having a heart transformed by God, empowered to love others deeply and unconditionally. This transformation makes agape love possible.
Living this love reveals our connection to God. In a world where love is often self-serving or conditional, agape stands out. Acts of patience, kindness, and forgiveness become marks of God’s presence in us. When we extend this love to others—especially when it’s difficult—we are testifying to the reality of God’s work in our lives. Jesus highlighted this when He said, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another” (John 13:35). Our ability to love this way shows that we are born of God, bearing His nature.
Loving others as God loves us isn’t always easy, but it’s essential. John connects love to knowing God personally. To know Him is to know His love and let it transform us so deeply that it naturally flows into our relationships. Through agape, we show the world what it means to be born of God.
Meditate
Reflect on how agape love shows up in your life. Is it evident that God’s love is transforming you? Are there areas where you can let His love flow more freely?
Act on the Word
Ask God today to fill you with agape love. Look for a chance to practice it through kindness, patience, or forgiveness.
Pray
Father, thank You for Your love. Help me to love others with the same agape love You have shown me.
Recommended Read
- His banner over me was love
- We Have Known and Believed the Love of God
- The Love Language of Jesus
- Born of God, Hallelujah!
- All Deshen Daily Devotionals
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