A Genuine Love (Part 1)

Early on in my Computer Science studies, I learned a concept that would stick with me for the rest of my technical life:  GIGO.  (Techies love acronyms, don't they.)  GIGO simply stands for "Garbage In, Garbage Out."  In the Information Systems world, this helps us work with data that gets entered into computer programs and systems.  When I misspell my name signing up on a web site, the computer will accurately store my misspelled name and display that misspelling on the screen and reports.  The computer simply reflects what is stored inside.

"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... (Matthew 6:24 NIV)

The same concept holds true in our walk together with God.  Storing “garbage” inside will eventually come out in our lives.  All the discussion about boxes, conveyor belts, and warehouses simply help us understand what is going on in the Spiritual realm.  These tools help us understand how to deal with GIGO in our minds and hearts - first by protecting them, and then by cleaning them.

"'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment."  (Matthew 22:37-38 NIV)

This is important because our relationship with God is the most important, and longest lasting, relationship we will ever develop.  We are trying to build a relationship with God that is positive, good, and filled with love.  GIGO (or bad boxes) get in the way of that kind of relationship.

…There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. (1 John 4:16-18 NIV)

You may start out being overwhelmed by the awesome power of God.  Perhaps you were raised to see God through the eyes of strict rules that inevitably lead to punishment when you break them.  While God flexes His powerful “muscles” to get your attention and sets rules to protect you from even greater consequences, His end goal is never to have a relationship with you based in anger or fear.  He loves you.  He wants you you to receive that love and love Him back.

And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God's own will. And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them. (Romans 8:27-28 NLT)

Loving God with your whole heart, mind, soul, and strength is more than a command.  It’s a way of life.  When we live life this way, God shows us His love by working all things together for your good.  When we genuinely love God, it is good.

Is your love for God genuine?  Is there “garbage” or are “bad boxes” getting in the way?  Take the time to talk to Him throughout your day to build your relationship closer than it was before.