Is it true that every human being desires love? Or is it a fallacy, an illusion, a figment of society's imagination? Many would argue that the human desire for love is innate and universal. Love, they say, is something everyone seeks. But what about the divine? Does God also seek to be loved? Some theologians claim that the creator has no need for human affection but wants to be known instead. In this essay, I will explore both sides of the argument. Let's start with the human side.
Human Desire For Love
Humans are social animals who crave companionship and understanding. We require emotional connection to thrive. When we feel lonely or rejected, we experience pain. That's why people often go to great lengths to find someone special in their lives. They may join dating sites, attend parties, or even try online matchmaking services. These methods might seem superficial or shallow, but they reflect the depth of our longing for intimacy. The Bible says that "God created man in his own image" (Genesis 1:27) which means he shares many qualities with humans. This includes the desire for relationship, especially since God values unity and fellowship among believers (John 17:20-26). So if God created us with a yearning for love, does it follow that he feels the same way?
Divine Desire To Be Known
Some scholars believe that God wants to be known rather than loved. He doesn't need our adoration; he already knows everything about us.
He desires to reveal himself through his creation and interact with it. In fact, the first chapter of Genesis describes how God spoke creation into existence as an act of self-expression. His artistry and ingenuity were on display as he formed each living thing from dust. Therefore, God is not only lovable but also creative and intelligent. Likewise, when Adam named the animals after they came out of the ark, God was pleased (Genesis 2:19), showing that he enjoys human language and communication. This suggests that knowledge and understanding are important to him, not just affection.
Other theologians argue that God desires both knowing and being known. They point to verses like Psalm 46:10 which states that God is "our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." This implies that God sees himself as a source of comfort for those who seek him out.
John 3:16 declares that God loves us so much that he gave his only son to die for our sins. That shows how much he cares about his children and wants to demonstrate his love tangibly.
Revelation 21:3 says that God will wipe away every tear from our eyes and create a new heaven and earth where we can dwell with him forever. These passages suggest that while God desires intimacy with humans, he also longs for their love. He delights in giving grace, mercy, and peace—all forms of affection towards us.
There is evidence supporting both sides of this debate. On one hand, many people feel loved when they spend time with friends or family members. And since God created them, it's possible that he takes pleasure in their companionship too.
Some texts show that he values knowledge more than sentimentality. In any case, regardless of how divine desire matches up with human love, it seems clear that God wants to connect with each person individually. Whether through relationship-building activities or prayerful reflection on scripture, believers should strive to build close bonds with their creator. After all, as Psalm 73:28 reminds us, the Lord is good and deserves our praise!
Does the divine desire to be known mirror the human desire to be loved?
The idea of being known by God is often understood as a reflection of one's love for Him, but it can also suggest that this knowledge comes with obligation. While people may long for a deep connection with others, they are not always willing to submit to all their needs and desires. Thus, there is an inherent tension between wanting intimacy and fearing vulnerability.