“God is love.” — 1 John 4:8b

February, for many men—husbands, especially, marks the month in which a particular day has been set aside as a reminder to express love and affection toward one’s wife or that special person in one’s life. From this day has grown an entire cottage industry of record sales in greeting cards, chocolates, roses, and even a stuffed plush animal thrown in for good measure.

Over time, we’ve come to believe that our love can somehow be measured by how many of these things we give. While there may be a small sliver of truth in that idea, it is largely rooted in emotion—how we feel in a given season. I’m not suggesting we abandon these traditions, but rather that we remind one another of what Scripture reveals as true love.

The apostle Paul gives us a clear picture in 1 Corinthians 13:4–8. Biblical love is patient and kind. It does not envy or boast. It is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way, is not resentful, and does not rejoice in wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends.

Biblical love is not built on the shifting sands of emotion; it is grounded firmly on the rock of commitment.

When Scripture tells us in 1 John 4:8 that “God is love,” it is not merely offering a description of one of God’s attributes—it is revealing the very essence of His nature. God is love, and He expresses that love in relationship with His creation. He loved us so deeply that He sent His only, unique Son into the world to die for us. God did not send flowers or chocolates—He sent His Son, sacrificially. That is love rooted in commitment.

And this love was not extended because of how God “felt” about us at the time. Scripture reminds us that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

John writes:

“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent His only Son into the world, so that we might live through Him… Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” — 1 John 4:7–11

Our love, then, should be measured not by sentiment alone, but by our devotion and commitment to Christ. It is a love marked by sacrifice—modeled perfectly by Christ, who bore our sin and received upon Himself the punishment we deserved.

It has been said that if you want to know how much God loves you, read the sixty-six love letters He wrote to us. In them, you will see the countless ways God has demonstrated His love for you and for me.

So yes—by all means, treat your beloved to flowers, chocolates, and a nice dinner. But let it flow from the true source of love itself—God.

Final Summary & Call to Action

True love is not measured by emotion or material gifts, but by commitment and sacrifice. Scripture reminds us that God Himself is love, demonstrated most fully in the giving of His Son for our salvation. As recipients of such profound grace, we are called to reflect that same Christ-centered love in how we live, serve, and love one another.

As you celebrate this season, let your love be rooted in devotion to Christ and expressed through sacrificial care for others. We invite you to prayerfully consider how God may be calling you to embody His love—through faithful obedience, intentional relationships, and continued partnership with ROD Ministries as we share the transforming love of Christ with those who need it most.

At Restoration Outreach of Dallas (ROD Ministries), we believe restoration doesn’t stop at spiritual growth. It continues into real life, real responsibility, and real opportunity.

Today, we are grateful to share that every man currently participating in our program is employed. These men have shown up, put in the work, remained accountable, and committed themselves to change. Employment isn’t just a paycheck. It represents dignity, stability, and a step toward rebuilding families and futures.

We want to extend our sincere thanks to the employers who chose to see potential instead of a past. Your willingness to open doors, take chances, and invest in these men is making a tangible difference. You are not just providing jobs; you are partnering in restoration.

Because of your support, lives are changing. Families are being strengthened. Hope is becoming visible.

If you would like to partner with ROD Ministries as an employer, donate household items to support our homes, or learn more about how you can get involved, please reach out to us or visit our website to give. Your support helps make restoration possible.

January marks the start of new classes at Hutchins State Jail and the Buster Cole Unit. Men are stepping into a new season of structured, faith-based teaching focused on accountability, responsibility, and personal growth.

These classes represent more than a fresh start. They are part of a long-term commitment to walk alongside individuals as they confront patterns, renew their thinking, and build a foundation for lasting change. We ask that you keep our students, volunteers, and instructors in prayer as these new classes begin.

Interested in supporting or volunteering with this work?

Contact us to learn more.