Jesus never encouraged people to strengthen their faith by loving God more. He encouraged people to love their neighbor more as a means of strengthening their faith. While this may seem counter intuitive, it is never-the-less scriptural. Let me show you how.
Our Lord was approached by a wealthy young man who asked what he must do to have eternal life. (Luke 18:18 ff) Jesus answered that he should keep the law. The man replied that he had, since he was but a child.
Loving him, Jesus said, “One thing you still lack; sell all that you possess and distribute it to the poor, and you shall have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.”
The standard answer today given to someone who is struggling spiritually is to love God more. Jesus’ answer is to love others more.
If you are struggling to find God’s presence in your life, then go find people who are hurting. You will find the Spirit of the Lord there. Love those who are in need. You will experience God’s presence.
The answer is not found by loving God more. You can do that all by yourself sitting at home alone. The answer is found in showing God’s love to others in real, tangible ways. To do that, you have to go do something, with someone, for someone.
If you are a Christ-follower, Jesus Christ is going to lead you to others who need to be loved in His name. It will take you out of your comfort zone, but it will become priceless to you.
A HEART TOWARD HOME 