Proverbs 20:28 TRUE Love
Solomon speaks of a two way love that is essential for a kingdom to stand. Military force might take a kingdom but it is TRUE love that sustains it.
This kind of love is an example of God’s perfect love. Man’s love will always be a poor substitute when compared with God’s but it is what we have to offer. I have heard it preached many times, the difference between the love Jesus was calling for from Peter and what he was able to give. The third time Jesus asked Peter if he loved Him, he used Peter’s measure of love. That was all Peter had to give. And it was acceptable to the Lord.
When contemplating this verse I was thinking about earthly kings and how they have NO kingdom if they have NO subjects. To initially gain those subjects they have to earn a place of honor in their hearts. Think of King David. He never put himself forward as a king. He waited to be invited by those he would rule. When he began getting followers while running from Saul, he cared DEEPLY for those he was leading. He made sure their needs were met. He earned their love and loyalty because he cared for their needs. As they traveled with him, he saw to their physical needs. He made sure they had food to eat, clothes to wear, a place to rest and safety. He had help in providing these for those following him but his love for them was his driving force. And their love for him was why they stayed. Their existence wasn’t easy; always running and hiding. Yet their commitment to David outweighed ANY hardship they suffered. His kingdom came to be because he proved his love for the people and they proved theirs for him. God’s love for us IS steadfast. He loves us even though we constantly disappoint Him. He loved us even before He said the first words of creation. And He made us with the ability to CHOOSE to love Him in return. God didn’t want love that wasn’t freely given. Our love for Him binds us to Him and His kingdom.
God’s throne is the ONLY one that isn’t dependent upon having others elevate Him to that position. He is on the “throne” BECAUSE HE IS GOD. No other kingdom can make that claim. His Kingdom exists because He spoke it into being AND populated it with people who would come to love Him deeply. We love Him because He first loved us. MY King proved, and continues to prove, His love for me. The GREATEST demonstration of His love is in sending Jesus to take my just and fair punishment for me. He loved ME that much! I will bind my life to THIS King forever!!!
Father God, THANK YOU for Your AMAZING LOVE! It is a love I do NOT deserve. You have loved me from the foundations of the earth. If my love for You is in ANY WAY helpful in building and/or maintaining Your Kingdom, I GIVE IT FREELY. Do with that love what You will. Your love for me is the ONLY reason I still exist. Without it I am less than nothing. “Thank You Father” I whisper as I snuggle into Your arms and find rest. Thank You for Your love. Thank You for Your rest that You give me. And Thank You for the purpose You have given my life. Forever and always, THANK YOU. And MOST importantly; I LOVE You Aba.
