Scripture:

“Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.” 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (NLT)

Perspective:

Paul wrote to the church in Corinth with instructions for living. In chapter 13, he came to a paramount topic in addressing how the people should love one another. Instead of simply telling them to love, he began to describe the characteristics of love. Love slows down for someone else. It says a kind word when a harsh word is the first thing to come to mind. Love perseveres in difficulty and remains optimistic that the future will be brighter. However, love is not a “pie in the sky” idea. It requires intention to love people well.

It is amazing how love can transform a life. When someone goes from never experiencing love to being integrated within a family of love, their life takes on a whole new dimension. When people live loved, they are able to thrive. Even so, learning to love those around us well can be challenging. It is not always easy to not become irritated when a spouse continually does something annoying. It is not easy to be patient when your child pushes your buttons. No one said that love was easy, but when we put these behaviors into action, it frees us to focus on whole hearted living. In the midst of learning to love well, we receive in turn the benefit that a life full of love brings. We become more hopeful and patient; our words and tone change, which positively impact us. The secret to love is in the giving and receiving, and the blessing of love is how we grow from the love we give.

Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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About Hona Amer

I help people live life to the fullest. Check out my book, Smart Work U. Follow me on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram. In order to receive updates, subscribe below.

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