The Orientation of Love: A Matter of Perspective, Not Merit

We often speak of God’s love as a reward, something earned through righteous deeds or unwavering faithfulness. The modern world, steeped in conditional logic, reinforces this notion. But what if the very foundation of that love – the bedrock upon which all covenants and blessings rest – is an unconditional outpouring? What if our struggle isn’t to *obtain* God’s love, but to receive it?

The Brethren have consistently taught of God’s boundless and unwavering love for each of His children, yet the persistent feeling of inadequacy, of falling short, can cloud our perception. We strive, we pray, we sacrifice, and still, a nagging doubt lingers: Am I truly worthy of such grace?

The answer, as Brother Bednar so eloquently articulates, is not found in a ledger of merits and demerits. It's found in understanding that His love isn't contingent on our performance. It flows to us regardless. The impediment isn’t on His side, but on ours. Our experience of His love is a “function of how you Orient to him and and receive him in in reality.”

Consider the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32). The father’s love wasn’t diminished by the son’s rebellion; it was magnified by his return. The joy wasn’t a reward for the son’s repentance, but a demonstration of the father's unwavering, unconditional affection. Similarly, the iron rod of knowledge, as described in D&C 8:5, is available to all who seek it, but only those who diligently search and orient themselves aright can grasp it firmly.

This concept has profound implications for our understanding of the Restoration. The temple ordinances, the priesthood authority, the gift of the Holy Ghost – these are not earned privileges, but expressions of God’s love offered freely. Our faithfulness allows us to partake of them more fully, but the offer itself is unconditional. The Atonement of Jesus Christ is the ultimate demonstration of this truth – a boundless act of love extended to all mankind, regardless of their worthiness.

How then, do we cultivate this proper orientation? Through consistent scripture study, fervent prayer, diligent service, and a humble reliance on the Spirit. It requires a conscious effort to shift our perspective, to recognize that God’s love is not a prize to be won, but a wellspring to be drawn from. It demands we examine our own narratives, the voices that whisper doubt and inadequacy, and replace them with the resounding truth of His unwavering affection.

The Spirit’s witness is vital. It’s the gentle nudge, the clarifying whisper, that realigns our hearts with the truth of God’s unconditional love. To ignore this witness is to actively reject the very source of our joy and strength.

Let us strive not to *earn* God’s love, but to receive it with gratitude and humility, allowing it to permeate every aspect of our lives and illuminate our path.

Consider the words of Isaiah: “Fear not, for I have redeemed thee; I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.” (Isaiah 43:1) Reflect on this promise and seek to understand its profound implications for your personal journey.