“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength.” — Deuteronomy 6:5(NIV)

“The LORD is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth.” — Psalm 145:18(NIV)

“If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him.” — John 14:23(NIV)

Love for God is the foundation of a life that carries His presence. God does not primarily dwell in activities, programs, or outward expressions of religion; He dwells in hearts that genuinely love Him. The presence of God is sustained where affection for God is preserved. Many desire the power of God, but few are intentional about cultivating love for God—and yet love is the secret place where His presence abides.

Biblical love for God is total and intentional. Deuteronomy 6:5 reveals that God desires all of us—our heart (affections), soul (inner life), and strength (actions). When love for God is divided, our spiritual sensitivity weakens. But when our love is whole, undistracted, and surrendered, the presence of God becomes evident in our lives.

God’s presence is not forced; it is attracted. Love draws God near. Psalm 145:18 reminds us that the Lord is near to those who call upon Him in truth—that is, with sincerity and genuine affection. God responds to hearts that seek Him not for what He can give, but for who He is. When love is pure, prayer becomes communion, worship becomes intimacy, and obedience becomes delight.

Jesus further reveals that love is the gateway to divine habitation. In John 14:23, He explains that those who love Him and keep His word become a dwelling place for the Father and the Son. This means God does not only visit lovers of God; He abides with them. Love sustains the presence of God beyond moments of prayer and into daily life.

Application for Today: Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal anything competing with your love for God. Intentionally set aside time to love God without asking for anything in return. Practice obedience in small, daily matters as an expression of love. Keep your heart tender through repentance, worship, and gratitude.

 Prayer of the Day: Father, in the name of Jesus, I ask for a deeper revelation of Your love and grace. Ignite my heart with genuine affection for You. Remove every distraction, idol, and divided loyalty that competes with You. Teach me to love You wholly and faithfully. Let my obedience flow naturally from love and let my life become a continual dwelling place for Your presence. I choose You above all else. In Jesus’ name, Amen.