Patient and Kind
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It doesn’t dishonour others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” 1 Corinthians 13:4-8
When I prepare to write a blog post, I always choose something that’s on my heart or a topic I feel the reader could benefit from. During these past few weeks I can’t help but to reread 1 Corinthians 13:4-8; It’s one of my favorite verses and a beautiful outline on what love is. The world needs support and unconditional love right now. It isn’t just something we need to feel in our hearts but our love for one another needs to be shown in our actions.
Love is not just something we need to feel good about ourselves. Do you love your parents only to feel love in return? Do you love your sibling only when they do something nice for you? Luke 6:35 states “Love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great.” I believe we’ll never feel genuine love if we aren’t able to give it to others first. If you don’t know what selfless love feels like when giving it to others, how will you know it when it’s given to you? Love is not conditional and it shouldn’t end when someone's needs are met. We should continue to love and care for one another even when things are going well.
Love is more than treating others with compassion and warmth. It’s showing that you’ll be there for someone even when it’s difficult. God showed us the love he had when Christ died for our sins “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8. It’s more than treating others as you want to be treated. It’s loving others the way God would. Love is about giving. Learn to listen to others' problems and try to understand them. Learn to accept others where they’re at. Learn to be transparent and honest in everyday interactions.
I’m not perfect and I've done my fair share of selfish acts. However it’s vital to self analyze and ask yourself, Do I love only on my own terms? Do I love only when it’s easy? Do I love only when I know I won’t be criticized? Now is not the time to hide any compassion, love, or kindness you have for each other. God has called us to love each other because he IS love.
Best wishes,
Emily