Thinking About Love - Teaching Material

The profound words of 2 Timothy 1:7 remind us, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind." Here, the Apostle Paul reaches deep into the heart of God’s nature, revealing not just a divine command but a beautiful promise. Love, as Paul describes, is the very essence of who God is — it’s agape, the selfless, sacrificial love that invites us to grow and flourish.

Consider a child learning to ride a bicycle. At first, they are gripped by fear, unsure of their balance, worried about falling. Yet, with the patient guidance of a parent, they learn to trust. They discover that love propels them forward, not fear. In our spiritual journeys, God invites us into this same experience. When we face tests and trials, it is His love that comforts us, His grace that strengthens us. He equips us with not just the ability to endure, but also the power to thrive — even in uncertainty.

As we embrace this love, we find our purpose clarified. It’s not merely about enduring; it’s about actively loving others, just as we have been loved. In those moments of doubt, let us remember that God’s spirit is within us, continually prompting us to extend grace and love, not just to ourselves but to a world in desperate need of hope. In every challenge you face, lean into that truth: you are not alone, and the love that surrounds you is powerful, guiding you toward growth and purpose.