LOVE PERFECTED
No one has ever seen God; but if we loveG25 one another, God remains in us, and His loveG26 is perfectedG5048 in us.
1 John 4:12
G5048 τελειόω teleióō – (II) Metaphorically meaning to make perfect although not faultless but bringing to a state of completion or fulfillment. (A) Generally (John 17:23, “that they may be [perfect or completely united in] on”’ 2 Cor. 12:9, “My power shows itself perfect in weakness” [a.t.]. meaning that it appears as a need arises; James 2:22, 1 John 2:5; 4:12, 17, 18).
The Complete Word Study Dictionary, New Testament, Spiros Zodhiates, ed.
“God remains in us.” Because we are indwelt by the Holy Spirit of God, we are enabled to love as He loved. His power overcomes our weakness at the moment we need it so that others see His love through us.
For it is [not your strength, but it is] God who is effectively at work in you, both to will and to work [that is, strengthening, energizing, and creating in you the longing and the ability to fulfill your purpose] for His good pleasure.
Philippians 2:13 (AMP)
God’s love is made mature in us not through our striving but by His power at work in our lives. This side of Heaven, we will never love perfectly unconditionally as the Lord does. However, He is maturing us as we follow Him day-by-day. Love is maturing in us like a seed matures into a plant. God placed a seed of His love in us the moment we received Christ. We water it with God’s word and bathe it in the Sonlight by prayer and praise. This seed will continue to grow into a flourishing plant because God is the master gardener!
He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Philippians 1:6
Father, help us to do our part in growing Your love by studying the Bible, spending time in prayer, and being obedient to Your command to love. We trust that what you have called us to do, You will empower us to do. Thank You for infusing us with Your strength and Your love.