The Magnitude of God’s Love

We’ve all heard it countless times from churches, preachers, and fellow believers: God loves us. Yet, some of us have become numb to this truth, failing to fully grasp the depth and magnitude of God’s love for each of us.

God’s Love Through Creation

Before I committed to following Christ, my heart and mind were captivated by science and philosophy—fields that often challenge the surrender to faith. Yet, in His perfect wisdom, God used these very interests to reveal His immense love to me. Albert Einstein, a brilliant scientist celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions, once remarked that the existence of the universe is far from accidental. He observed that every detail seems to serve a purpose, as if crafted by an absolute being. Though Einstein was neither religious nor a believer in God, his reflection points to a profound truth: even those who examine the world solely through physical lenses can perceive the intentionality of God’s creation, a reflection of His love for us.

Consider the vastness of the universe—an expanse so immense that we have yet to fully comprehend its boundaries. Among countless galaxies, there exists one, the Milky Way, and within it, a small planet called Earth. This tiny dot in the grand tapestry of the cosmos is home to oceans brimming with life, skies that stretch endlessly above, forests dense with vibrant creatures, and billions of people, each living out their unique stories. And here you are, sitting in your room, a part of this incredible creation.

At the dawn of time, God spoke this world into existence, crafting it with precision and care. Everything was perfect, abundant, and intricately designed to meet every need. The earth was a place of harmony, a reflection of God’s goodness and creativity. But even when humanity’s fall introduced pain and suffering, God’s love remained unshaken.

Nature, in all its beauty and resilience, continues to sustain, nourish, and inspire us. The cycles of the seasons, the renewal of life, and the awe-inspiring wonders of the natural world all testify to a Creator whose works are inherently good and wondrous. God’s love is evident in every sunrise, in every breath of fresh air, and in the endless beauty that surrounds us, reminding us that even in a fallen world, His love and provision never cease.

God’s Love Through the Ages

From the moment Adam and Eve sinned, God’s love has been evident—even in His discipline. Though He punished them for their disobedience, He did not abandon them. When they realized their nakedness and felt shame, God provided clothing for them and watched over them:

“And the Lord God made clothing from animal skins for Adam and his wife.” (Genesis 3:21)

In this simple but powerful act, God not only addressed their immediate physical need, but He also symbolized His ongoing provision and protection, even in the midst of their fallen state. It was a gesture that went beyond mere necessity—it was an embodiment of grace. By covering them, God was also communicating that despite their sin, they were not forsaken. His love remained steadfast, guiding them even as they faced the consequences of their actions.

This moment in the Garden of Eden reflects a truth that resonates throughout all of Scripture: God’s discipline is always coupled with His love. Like a parent who disciplines their child not out of anger, but out of a deep desire for their child’s growth and maturity, God’s corrections are meant to lead us back to Him, to teach us, and to transform us. As the author of Hebrews reminds us:

“For the Lord disciplines those He loves, and He punishes each one He accepts as His child.” (Hebrews 12:6)

God’s discipline is not an end in itself but a means to restore us, to mold us into the people He created us to be. It is an expression of His love that seeks our ultimate good, even when it comes through hardship.

God’s love is so profound that even when humanity strayed far from Him, becoming steeped in wickedness, He did not turn away. Instead, He continued to reach out to us with understanding, patience, and a willingness to forgive. Time and again, He has extended opportunities for repentance, offering us a way back into His embrace. His desire has never been to see us perish in our sins, but to offer us life—life that is abundant and eternal, lived in communion with Him.

God’s love is not passive; it is active, pursuing us relentlessly, even in our darkest moments. He does not delight in punishment for its own sake, but rather, He uses it as a tool to draw us nearer, to refine our hearts, and to guide us towards the life He envisions for us—a life spent in His presence, experiencing the fullness of His joy and peace. In His love, God has always provided a way back, no matter how far we have fallen. His ultimate goal is not our destruction, but our redemption, our restoration, and our eternal place with Him in His kingdom.

God’s Love Through His Son

In His ultimate act of love, God sent His only Son, Jesus Christ, into the world to save us. This was not a simple gesture, but the culmination of divine love—a love so deep and so vast that it moved the heart of God to offer what was most precious to Him. Jesus came not as a distant deity, but as a man who walked among us, experiencing our pains, our struggles, and our temptations. He lived a life of perfect obedience, demonstrating the true nature of God’s love through His teachings, miracles, and compassion. Yet, the purpose of His coming was not just to be an example, but to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins.

Through Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, we were given a final, irrevocable chance to be cleansed of our sins. In the Old Testament, sacrifices of animals were required to atone for sin, a practice that underscored the severity of sin and the cost of forgiveness. But these sacrifices were only temporary, a shadow of the ultimate sacrifice to come. Jesus, the spotless Lamb of God, offered Himself once and for all, putting an end to the need for continual offerings. His death on the cross was a complete and perfect sacrifice, sufficient to cover the sins of all humanity for all time. This was the greatest gift, the greatest act of love the world has ever known.

Yet, how did humanity respond to this incredible gift? With rejection, mockery, and even crucifixion. Jesus was betrayed by one of His closest followers, denied by another, and abandoned by almost all of them. The very people He came to save were the ones who demanded His death. They did not recognize the Messiah, the Savior who stood before them. Instead, they chose to scorn Him, to ridicule His claims, and to subject Him to the most brutal form of execution known at that time. The Son of God, the embodiment of divine love, was nailed to a cross, bearing the weight of our sins and the wrath of God that we deserved.

This truth pierces my heart—the sheer magnitude of God’s love, His boundless mercy, and His relentless forgiveness. Despite all we have done—our sins, our rejections, our failures—God’s love remains steadfast. He continues to offer us peace, joy, and the promise of eternal life if we choose to follow Him. This offer is not conditional upon our past; it is an invitation extended to all, regardless of what we have done.

Where else in this world can we find such love? Nowhere. The love that God offers us is incomparable, unmatched by any human relationship or earthly power. It is a love that is unconditional, sacrificial, and eternal. No person, no power, no wealth, or status can ever replicate the love that God freely gives us through Jesus Christ. Only He can offer us the peace that surpasses all understanding, the joy that is unspeakable, and the promise of a life that will never end, spent in His glorious presence. This is the love that sustains us, redeems us, and transforms us into the people He created us to be. This is the love that can only be found in God.

My prayer is that you will come to believe in the depth of God’s love for you. He is always there, ready to rescue you from every trouble and danger. I pray that you cling to the truth that God the Father loves you, and that through His Son, Jesus Christ, who died for you, you have the chance at eternal life and peace. Amen.

“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)

Choosing the Eternal: Filling Our Hearts with God’s Love

Lately, I’ve found myself captivated by Korean dramas, drawn in by the complex characters and compelling storylines. What started as a simple pastime quickly grew into something more—an escape, a world where I could imagine living the lives of these characters. At first, I believed it was harmless entertainment, a way to pass the time. Yet, as days turned into weeks, I noticed a shift in my heart. I became increasingly engrossed, not just in the dramas themselves, but in the actors’ lives, following them closely on social media, eagerly hoping for their real-life romances to mirror the screen.

But as I poured more of myself into this fictional world, I began to sense a distance growing between me and God. My prayers felt hollow, my connection to Him weakened. It dawned on me that my heart was no longer centered on Him—my source of joy had shifted to something, or rather someone, else.

This realization opened my eyes to a truth that many of us face: our hearts can easily be filled with things other than God. For some, it might not be idols or entertainment, but the pursuit of wealth, success, or other worldly desires. The Bible gives us a powerful reminder through the words of Joshua, who faced a similar challenge among his people:

"But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve... But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord." (Joshua 24:15)

Joshua’s words are not just a simple invitation; they are a call to decisive action. He doesn’t leave room for indecision or half-hearted devotion. He knew that the people needed to make a clear and deliberate choice. Would they commit their lives fully to the Lord, or would they allow their hearts to be divided, torn between God and the fleeting desires of the world?

This choice is as relevant today as it was then. We, too, are faced with the decision of who or what will reign in our hearts. Will we serve the Lord with all that we are, placing Him above everything else in our lives? Or will we allow our hearts to be divided, giving in to the temptations that pull us away from our Creator? Joshua’s challenge urges us to examine our lives closely, to consider where our true allegiance lies. His words compel us to choose, and to choose wisely, for the path we take will shape not only our earthly lives but our eternal destiny as well.

In a world filled with distractions and competing loyalties, Joshua’s declaration stands as a beacon of unwavering faith. It reminds us that serving the Lord is not just a matter of words, but of daily choices and actions. It is a call to dedicate our lives wholly to God, to let Him be the center of our existence, and to trust that in serving Him, we will find true and lasting fulfilment.

Jesus echoed this sentiment when He said:

"No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money." (Matthew 6:24)

In these words, Jesus addresses a universal struggle—the tension between our spiritual calling and the temptations of the material world. He makes it clear that our hearts cannot be divided between two masters. If we claim to love God, then He should be the center of our lives, the one who fills our hearts with joy, peace, and purpose. Yet, how often do we find ourselves seeking fulfillment in other things? Whether it’s wealth, success, relationships, or even the approval of others, these pursuits can easily become idols, subtly taking the place that belongs to God alone. This is the heart of the matter that Jesus is addressing. These things, though not inherently bad, can become dangerous when they start to occupy the place in our lives that should be reserved for God alone. We must be intentional about what we allow to fill our hearts, minds, and souls.

To serve God wholeheartedly, we must be willing to surrender anything that competes with Him for our devotion. This requires a deep and ongoing commitment to examine our priorities and to align them with God’s will. It means letting go of the desires and ambitions that pull us away from Him, trusting that His presence is all we truly need.

May we find the strength to break free from the chains of earthly desires that seek to enslave us. Let us turn our hearts fully toward God, seeking His guidance and grace in every aspect of our lives. As we do, we can trust that He will fill us with a joy and peace that surpasses all understanding—a joy that is not dependent on the fleeting pleasures of this world but is rooted in the eternal love of our Creator.
In the name of Jesus Christ, who lives forever and ever, may we find the courage to choose Him above all else, and may our hearts be filled with His presence, now and forever. Amen.

Learning to Love God Truly

Imagine a man who is only interested in a woman because of her looks or physical attraction. If she says no, he walks away without a second thought. Or think about a wife who leaves her husband for another man, not because she loves him, but because he offers more wealth. How would that feel? This is often how we treat God. We go to Him asking for things we want in life, and when we don’t get them, we start to doubt Him or even turn away. But how do you think God feels when we only come to Him because we want something, rather than because we truly love Him? 

Jesus commanded us to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind (Matthew 22:37). But what does that really mean?

First, this commandment calls us to love God above anything else; that Him filling our heart, mind and soul is enough. That He alone suffices. Our hearts should be so filled with love for God that just knowing He is with us is enough. If we love something else other than God in our hearts, we do not love Him. If we keep something else in our mind other than God, we do not love Him. If our soul wants anything more than His presence, we do not love God.  If we love anything more than God—whether it’s money, success, or even other people—then we’re not truly loving Him as we should. The Bible clearly says:

“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.” (Matthew 6:24)

Anything that takes God’s place in our hearts, minds and souls is an idol. We should find joy in His presence alone, even in our loneliest moments, because we know He is always with us.

Second, loving God means loving Him despite no gain. Loving God means loving Him even when there is nothing to gain. This is the kind of love that isn’t dependent on what we can receive but is rooted in a deep, unwavering devotion. It’s easy to praise God when life is going well—when we’re healthy, financially stable, and surrounded by loved ones. But what happens when these things are taken away? What happens when we face loss, suffering, and uncertainty? This is when our love for God is truly tested.

Imagine losing everything—your wealth, health, and the people you hold dear. Would your faith in God remain strong? Would you still be able to lift your hands in praise, even when your heart is heavy with grief? These are not easy questions, but they reveal the depth of our love for God. True love for God persists even when there is no reward, no tangible benefit, and no visible blessing.

Job, a figure in the Bible, exemplifies this kind of love. Job was a man who had everything—wealth, health, and family. But in a series of devastating events, he lost it all. Despite his profound suffering, Job did not curse God. Instead, he declared:

“Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised.” (Job 1:21)

Job’s response is remarkable because it shows that his love for God was not based on what God could give him. Even when everything was stripped away, Job remained faithful. He understood that God’s worth is not tied to the blessings He provides but is inherent in who God is. Job’s story teaches us that true love for God endures, even in the face of unimaginable loss.

This kind of love requires us to shift our perspective. In a world that often values transactions—where love and loyalty are sometimes conditional—we are called to a higher standard. Loving God without expecting anything in return means surrendering our desires and trusting that God’s presence is enough. It’s a love that says, “Even if I lose everything, even if I walk through the darkest valleys, I will still follow You because You are enough.”

This is not a love that comes naturally. It requires growth, maturity, and a deepening relationship with God. It calls us to let go of the idea that God is merely a provider of blessings and to embrace the truth that His presence is the greatest blessing of all. When we reach this point, our love for God becomes unshakable. It sustains us through life’s highs and lows, through the times of plenty and the times of want.

Moreover, this love transforms our lives. When we love God for who He is, our faith becomes resilient. We no longer waver when trials come because our foundation is solid. We find peace in His presence, even when the world around us is chaotic. We become a testament to others, showing that true love for God is not dependent on circumstances but on an enduring trust in His goodness and sovereignty.

Let us strive to cultivate this kind of love in our hearts—a love that doesn’t ask, “What can God do for me?” but instead declares, “God, I love You for who You are.” Let’s follow Him not because we seek blessings but because His presence is our greatest treasure. This is the love that will sustain us, anchor us, and carry us through every challenge we face. It’s the love that God desires from us and the love that will bring us closer to Him.

Israel vs. Palestine: To Whom Should We Show Mercy?

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine is one of the most complex and longstanding in modern history. While I may not possess a detailed understanding of its every nuance, the reality of the situation is clear: countless innocent lives have been lost, and the suffering of ordinary people has become a daily tragedy. This humanitarian crisis calls for urgent reflection and a sincere pursuit of peace, transcending political and territorial disputes.

At the heart of this conflict lies a fundamental question: What is more valuable—the land being contested or the lives of the people caught in the crossfire? As Christians and believers in God, we are compelled to consider whether our actions align with His will. Would God be pleased if we succeeded in securing a piece of land, knowing that the cost was measured in human lives? The teachings of Christ offer a resounding answer—no. In the eyes of God, justice, love, and mercy are of far greater importance than any earthly possession, for Christ has liberated us from the rigid confines of the law, calling us instead to live by the principles of love and compassion.

When faced with the question of whom to support in this conflict, many seek a clear answer, often aligning themselves with one side or the other. But as a Christian, my response is shaped by a deeper understanding of God’s nature. If we truly know the Father, we begin to understand His heart and His perspective. God does not see us through the lens of nationality, ethnicity, or political affiliation. He is not concerned with the labels we wear or the groups we belong to. What matters to Him is the content of our character, the purity of our hearts, and the actions we take to reflect His love in the world.

In light of this, I do not view the people involved in this conflict as Israelis or Palestinians; I see them as fellow human beings, each deserving of dignity, respect, and compassion. When someone is in need—regardless of their background or the side of the conflict they represent—I am called to offer my support. This, I believe, is the essence of Christian love. Christ’s teachings are clear: “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31). There is no caveat or condition attached to this commandment. It does not say to protect your land first or to love only those who share your beliefs. Instead, Christ’s message is one of unconditional love—a love that transcends boundaries and extends even to those who may be perceived as enemies.

Christ exemplified this love in His own life, showing compassion to all, even those who opposed Him. He taught that true love is not merely an emotion or a feeling but an action—a willingness to sacrifice oneself for the sake of others. “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13). This is the standard of love that Christ set for us, and it is this kind of love that we are called to embody in our own lives.

In the context of the Israel-Palestine conflict, this means that our first and foremost priority should be to advocate for peace and to extend our hands in mercy to all who suffer, regardless of which side they are on. We must remember that, above all, God is a God of love and mercy. He desires reconciliation, not division; healing, not harm. As followers of Christ, we are called to be peacemakers, to be agents of His love in a world that is often torn apart by hatred and violence.

Therefore, in the midst of this conflict, let us choose to be voices of reason and compassion. Let us remember that no land, no matter how sacred, is worth the loss of a single innocent life. Instead, let us work towards a future where love, justice, and mercy prevail—where all people, regardless of their nationality, can live in peace and dignity. This is what will truly please God, and this is what it means to be a Christian.

The Power of Embracing Our Weaknesses: A Journey to True Strength

One day, I found myself overwhelmed by the weight of life’s challenges. My relationships were unraveling, and each passing day seemed to drain the hope from my heart. In the depths of despair and loneliness, I cried out to the Lord: “Help me, for I no longer know what to do.”

In these moments, life’s trials often drive us to our knees, forcing us to confront a humbling truth: we are nothing without God. Yet, this truth is hard for many to accept. We live in a world that teaches us to rely solely on ourselves, to work tirelessly for our achievements, and to trust no one but our own abilities. As we grow older, the disappointments of life harden our hearts, leading us to believe that everything depends on our efforts alone. This mindset, however, is deeply flawed. 

The bible says, "In his pride, the wicked man does not seek Him; in all his thoughts, there is no room for God" (Psalm 10:4).

When we rely solely on ourselves, we fall into the trap of pride, believing that we are sufficient in our own strength and wisdom.

Even some Christians fall into this trap, attempting to blend faith in God with a relentless pursuit of earthly success. They trust in the Lord, yet find themselves consumed with anxiety about their lives, turning to God only when all other options have failed. But the road to God is a narrow one, filled with challenges that test our faith and trust in Him. These challenges are not meant to break us, but to transform us, guiding us toward humility and dependence on God.

When we face difficulties, we are often overwhelmed, realizing that many things are beyond our control. It is in these moments of helplessness that we truly understand our need for God. Despite our talents, skills, and achievements, we are powerless without Him. It is often in our darkest hours that we turn to the Lord, not out of desperation, but because we finally see the reality of our situation—we need Him.

Even as Christians, we can be guilty of self-reliance, believing that we somehow qualify for our salvation through our own efforts. But the truth is, we are saved by grace alone, through faith, and not by anything we have done. 

As Ephesians 2:8 reminds us, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God."

Our salvation, like everything else in our lives, is a gift from God. Our talents, our loved ones, and even our very lives are all blessings from Him. We must acknowledge this truth and recognize that we are nothing without His grace. 

As 2 Corinthians 3:5 says, "Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency is from God."

In embracing our own nothingness, we submit our lives to the Lord and allow His will to guide us. This submission, far from being a sign of weakness, becomes our greatest strength. 

As Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, "But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong."

Therefore, when we encounter challenges, we should view them as opportunities for transformation. These moments test our faith, teach us humility, and lead us to submit to God. In our nothingness, we find true gain. In our weakness, we discover true strength. Just as Paul delighted in his hardships, so too should we rejoice in our trials, for they bring us closer to God and make us stronger in His power.

In the end, the journey of faith is not about boasting in our strengths, but in recognizing our weaknesses and allowing God’s power to work through us. It is in this humble submission that we find the true essence of strength—one that is rooted not in our own abilities, but in the unshakable grace of God.

Welcome to The Bread of Life

Hello and welcome to The Bread of Life! My name is Bernadette, and I am so grateful that you’ve chosen to visit this space. This blog is a reflection of my heart’s desire to share the nourishment that I have found in my journey of faith. Here, I will be writing and sharing devotions, reflections, and insights that I pray will uplift and encourage you in your own walk with God.

The name The Bread of Life is inspired by John 6:35, where Jesus declares, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” Just as bread sustains our physical bodies, so too does the Word of God sustain our souls. My hope is that each post will serve as a piece of this life-giving bread, offering spiritual nourishment to all who read.

My purpose in creating this blog is to build a community where we can grow together in faith, draw closer to the Lord, and encourage one another in love. Whether you are new to the faith, have been walking with the Lord for years, or are simply seeking, I pray that you will find something here that speaks to you.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. I look forward to sharing, learning, and growing with you through the Word of God. May we all be filled and strengthened as we partake of the true Bread of Life.

Blessings,

Bernadette