Contemplative Bible Reading

1 John 4:12 (New Living Translation)

No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is brought to full expression in us.

The second sentence here is haunting. That is a pretty big IF. God lives in me if I love others about me. If I sort of just like others about me, well, this verse doesn’t explain that situation. I might be stretching the meaning, but it seems like “sort of just liking” others isn’t what God encourages.

Hmmm. Perhaps this is a translation error or some excuse that will make me feel better. Perhaps I should avoid this “sort of just liking” others and delve into the full expression of His love.

God, help me in my unbelief. Help me to avoid little runs around what You wish for me.