October 11

We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love our brothers. The one who does not love remains in death. — 1 John 3:14 BSB

In their early days, God’s people often have a measure of heavenly love. Though they may not be able to confidently say that Jesus is theirs, though they might hesitate to declare they are certain of heaven, and though they may even doubt whether the work of grace has truly begun in their souls, there is still a love that manifests itself in them for God’s Word, God’s people, God’s servants, and God’s truth. In their weakest, most tender days, there is a separation from the world, a decision to join God’s people, and a tender-hearted affection toward them. We see this in Ruth—though she was once a heathen idolater, when her heart was touched by the hand of God, she clung to Naomi.

Love for Christ can only arise from the teachings and workings of God in the heart. The “carnal mind is enmity against God”—nothing but irreconcilable enmity. But when the Lord, in His grace, begins to reveal Himself to the soul, when He unveils even a little of His beauty, grace, and glory, immediately divine love springs up. He is such a lovely Object! As the Bride says, He is “altogether lovely.” His beauty is so far beyond anything else, His grace so rich, His mercy so free—everything about Him is so unspeakably glorious—that the moment He reveals His lovely face, He wins over all the love of the heart, takes possession of the soul, and draws every affection to center wholly and solely on Himself.