“And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” – 1st Corinthians 13:13 (NKJV)
The world celebrates love in February. The stores are filled with red decorations, flowers, chocolates, and heart-shaped gifts. People celebrate love with joy, romance, and plenty of fanfare. But while this celebration lasts but for a moment and often focuses on outward expressions, God’s love is far greater and deeper.
His love is not limited to one month, and it does not fade when the decorations come down and the celebrations cease. God’s love is faithful and everlasting, reaching us in every season, comforting us in every struggle, and surrounding us even if no one else is celebrating us. Scripture teaches that love is the greatest virtue we can carry into our relationships, our homes, and our daily walk with God. Human love may rise and fall, but God’s love is steady, patient, and perfect.
According to 1st Corinthians 13:13, the greatest [trait] is love. When we allow God’s love to transform us and shape our hearts, it changes how we treat others. Scriptures also teach us that love is patient, kind, humble, forgiving, and truthful (1st Corinthians 13:4-8). Allowing love to penetrate our hearts makes us gentle with our words, more understanding in conflict, more generous with our time, and more willing to forgive. Love becomes not just something we feel, but something we live on, daily.
God doesn’t just give love — He is love (1st John 4:8). This means everything He does flows from a heart that cares deeply. His love lifts us even in our lowest moments, gives us strength when we feel weak, and surrounds us with comfort when we feel alone – clearly demonstrated in John 3:16. God gave His only begotten Son for you and me – freely and sacrificially. An act powerful enough to save.
As February unfolds, God invites us to reflect on a love that goes beyond feelings – a love that transforms our character. Let us love deeply, sincerely, and consistently – because God loves us the same way.
Friends, let the world experience the perfect love of God through us.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for showing us the greatest love through Jesus Christ. Fill our hearts with Your love so we can reflect You in everything we do. Teach us, oh God, to love patiently, kindly, and sincerely. Help us to forgive quickly, speak gently, and treat others the way You treat us. Let Your love continue to shine through our lives. In Jesus’ precious name! Amen.
Read: John 3:16; 1 John 4:8
Bible Reading Guide: Proverbs 5:1-14; Mark 2:18-28; Mark 3:1-30; Exodus 21; Exodus 22