Many people focus on the evil in this world. That's understandable. There's so much of it, but unfortunately dwelling on the evil usually doesn't move us to do the right thing. In our reactions we can become a part of the problem instead of the solution. Though we must be wise and understanding about sin and evil (Romans 16:17-19), we must look for the love of God and focus on it (John 16:33; Romans 12:17-21; I John 4:16, 18). Our text tells us to respond to God's love, rather than react to sin and evil. We will especially consider I John 3:16-18.

Look for God's Love. I John 3:16
We need to "perceive" God's Love. Therefore be looking for it. I John 3:1 tells us to "Behold" the Father's love. When we do it will change our lives and give us hope (I John 3:2-3). Ephesians 3:17-19 tells us to be grounded in God's love, seeking to comprehend and be filled with God's fullness. We can see God's love through the gift of His Son (John 3:16; I John 3:16; 4:9, 14, 16). This comprehension causes us to dwell in an environment of God's love (Jude 20-21).

Live in God's Love. I John 3:17
The expression, "bowels" (KJV) is equivalent to our expression, "heart." As God's love lives in us, we should have tender and compassionate hearts (I Peter 1:22). God's love is the cause and the reason for our love to God (I John 4:19); our love to the brethren (I John 5:1-2); our love of God's Will/Word (I John 5:3); and our ability to overcome the world (I John 3:1; 5:4-5).

Let out God's Love. I John 3:18
I John 3:9-15 shows us that God's love will cause us to have a life of good works and love (Ephesians 2:8-10). The world's hatred will not stop us (I John 3:12-13; 4:18; 5:4-5).