Does Jesus Love AND Like You?

Have you ever stopped to wonder not just if Jesus loves you, but if He actually likes you too? It’s one thing to accept His boundless love—it’s another to imagine Him enjoying your company, quirks and all. Let’s explore this heartwarming question together and see what Scripture reveals.

Jesus’ Love: The Unshakable Foundation

The Bible leaves no room for doubt: Jesus’ love for us is unconditional. It’s not tied to our successes, our failures, or how “good” we are. John 3:16 famously declares, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son…” And Romans 5:8 doubles down: “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” This love isn’t something we earn—it’s a gift, freely given, no strings attached. But does this deep, sacrificial love also mean He likes us?

Love vs. Like: What’s the Difference?

Love is a commitment—a choice to stand by someone no matter what. Liking someone, though, feels more personal. It’s about enjoyment, delight, wanting to spend time with them. So, does Jesus, the Creator of the universe, actually enjoy us? Spoiler alert: Yes, He does—and the evidence is beautiful.

Three Reasons Jesus Likes You

1. He Crafted You with Care
   Psalm 139:14 says, “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” Jesus didn’t just toss you together—He designed you intentionally, uniquely, and with delight. If He put that much thought into making you, it’s safe to say He likes the result!
2. He Calls You His Friend
   In John 15:15, Jesus says, “I have called you friends.” Think about that—friendship isn’t just obligation; it’s companionship. He wants to hang out with you, hear your thoughts, and be part of your story. That’s the mark of someone who enjoys you.
3. He Sees Your Potential
   Even when we stumble, Jesus doesn’t fixate on our flaws. He sees who we are at our core and who we’re becoming. Like the ultimate encourager, He’s rooting for you, delighting in your journey.

What About When We Sin?

Here’s where it gets real: Does Jesus still like us when we mess up? The answer is a resounding yes. He doesn’t approve of sin—those choices that hurt us or others—but He never stops liking you. Imagine a close friend: you might not love their occasional bad habits, but you still cherish their presence. Jesus, with His perfect patience, feels the same—only infinitely more so. He’s always ready to guide us back, not push us away.

Evidence of His Delight

The Bible is packed with moments that show Jesus’ affection for us:

• He Hung Out with Everyone: Luke 15:1-2 tells us Jesus spent time with tax collectors and sinners—people others rejected. He didn’t just tolerate them; He sought them out.
• He Knocks at Your Door: Revelation 3:20 paints a cozy picture: “I stand at the door and knock… I will come in and eat with that person.” Sharing a meal is a sign of enjoyment, not duty.
• He Sings Over You: Zephaniah 3:17 says, “He will take great delight in you… He will rejoice over you with singing.” Picture that—Jesus, joyfully singing because of you!

What This Means for You Today

If Jesus both loves and likes you, there’s no need to hide. You don’t have to feel unworthy or like you’re bothering Him. He’s not just putting up with you—He wants you around. He’s inviting you into a relationship where you can be yourself, grow, and thrive with Him by your side.

So, next time you pray or think about Jesus, remember this: You’re not just loved out of obligation. You’re liked—cherished, enjoyed, and celebrated—by the One who knows you best. Take a moment to let that sink in, and let it draw you closer to Him.

What do you think—how does knowing Jesus likes you change your day? Share your thoughts below!