My God, I Love Thee, Not Because

“My God, I Love Thee, Not Because” is a devotional hymn attributed to St. Francis Xavier, a 16th-century Jesuit missionary renowned for his missionary work in Asia, especially in India, Japan, and the Malay Archipelago. The hymn expresses a pure, selfless love for God, emphasizing that love for the Creator should not be motivated by fear of punishment or desire for reward but by genuine devotion and gratitude.

The hymn draws directly from Scripture. 1 John 4:19 declares, “We love him, because he first loved us,” highlighting the reciprocity of divine love that inspires human response. Matthew 22:37 calls believers to love the Lord with all their heart, soul, and mind, while Romans 5:8 underscores God’s unconditional love, demonstrated by Christ’s sacrifice for sinners. Xavier’s words echo these truths, inviting worshippers to cultivate a heartfelt, personal relationship with God that transcends obligation or expectation.

The hymn’s language is both intimate and reverent, reflecting the contemplative spirituality of Xavier’s life. By declaring love for God without ulterior motive, the hymn encourages believers to embrace sincerity, humility, and total devotion. It challenges Christians to examine the purity of their love and commitment, reminding them that true devotion arises from recognizing God’s grace and faithfulness rather than seeking personal gain.

“My God, I Love Thee, Not Because” has endured as a cherished hymn across denominations and centuries. It is often used in personal meditation, devotional services, and moments of reflection, offering worshippers a framework for understanding the essence of Christian love—love that is freely given, deeply felt, and rooted in the knowledge of God’s infinite mercy and faithfulness.