Knowing God by Love, not by Expectations 💕

 

1. God Is Known Through Relationship, Not Transaction

“And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.” — John 17:3 

God desires a relationship with us based on love and intimacy, not on performance or bargaining. When we approach Him with expectations—such as "If I do this, God will do that"—we reduce our walk with Him to a transaction. Jesus prayed that eternal life is found in knowing God, not just receiving from Him. True faith grows when we seek to love God for who He is, not just for what He can do.

2. Love Reflects God's Nature More Than Expectations Ever Can

“Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love.” — 1 John 4:8 

Expectations often center around self—what we want or think we deserve. Love, on the other hand, reflects God's very nature. If we truly want to know God, we must walk in love. It's in loving others, forgiving, and showing grace that we experience the heart of God. Expectations can distort our view of Him, but love aligns us with who He truly is.

3. Letting Go of Expectations Strengthens Faith

 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.” — Proverbs 3:5 

When we let go of rigid expectations and trust God's heart, even when we don’t understand His ways, our faith deepens. Expectations limit our vision to what we think is best. But love opens our hearts to trust God even in silence, delay, or suffering. Knowing God by love means surrendering control and allowing His will to lead us.