“We love because He first loved us.” – 1 John 4:19 (NIV)
The Bible teaches us that love is a commitment. It does not only depend on a good feeling but rather on consistent and courageous decisions to extend oneself. It is a covenant towards another person, i.e., a commitment demonstrated in action that seeks the interest of the next person.
One of the biblical definitions of love can be found in 1 Corinthians 13. Among other things, it is patient and kind. Love is also first in the fruit of the spirit. It is the greatest spiritual gift to have, and it flows out of us from the Spirit of God within us. Therefore, it is clear from this chapter that God embraces Christlike character more than ministry. His nature and character is love. He demonstrated this by sacrificing His only son, Jesus Christ (John 3:16).
When we talk about God’s love, we’re speaking about giving of oneself for the benefit of others. God’s love is perfect, steadfast, and unchanging. It is a model showing us how to love. The first and greatest command is that we should love our God with all our heart, with all our soul, and with all our mind (Mark 12:30-31). This is the beginning of our giving. We must show love to God, and then we also must love our neighbours as ourselves.
Apostle Paul also describes what love looks like in 1 Corinthians 13:4-8. It is patient, kind, doesn’t envy, doesn’t boast, and is not proud. Moreover, it is not rude nor self-seeking. It is not easily angered; it keeps no record of wrongs, doesn’t delight in evil, but rejoices with the truth.
My brothers and sisters, love always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres, and never fails. God doesn’t want anyone to perish, so let’s give of ourselves to ensure we spread the Good News of the kingdom, thereby winning souls for Him.
Read: Proverbs 11:30; 2 Peter 3:9
Bible Reading Guide: Proverbs 3:21-35; Matthew 21:18-32; Job 22; Job 23; Job 24
