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The Essence of True Love: Insights from 1 Corinthians

The Scripture of the Day is taken from:

1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (NKJV) ~ "Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things."

In this passage, the Apostle Paul provides a detailed description of what love looks like and, importantly, that Love is not just an emotion but also a choice and a way of life reflecting Christ’s nature. Today, love is often misunderstood and misrepresented. It is easy to get caught up in superficial expressions of love, but Paul calls us to a deeper, more transformative understanding of how we can embody these attributes.

Let’s look at these attributes and how they can help us transform our lives today.

1. Love is Patient and Kind

Consider the everyday stresses of life – from dealing with difficult coworkers to managing household responsibilities. Patience and kindness are often the first casualties of our busy lives. Yet, true love means choosing to be patient and kind, even when it's complicated. Imagine the transformation in our relationships if we responded patiently and kindly in every situation.

2. Love is Not Envious, Boastful, or Proud

In an age of social media, where people often compare their lives to the highlight reels of others, envy and pride can easily take root. True love means celebrating others' successes and practising humility. It’s about finding contentment in who we are and what we have and not needing to boast or seek validation.

3. Love is Not Rude, Self-Seeking, or Easily Angered

Our interactions are often rushed, leading to rude behaviour or self-centred attitudes. True love calls us to be courteous, to think of others’ needs before our own, and to control our temper. This can mean actively listening to someone without interrupting or taking time to help a stranger without expecting anything in return.

4. Love Keeps No Record of Wrongs

Forgiveness is a cornerstone of love. Holding onto grudges or past hurts only poisons our hearts. True love involves letting go of past offences and choosing to forgive, just as Christ forgives us. This doesn’t mean forgetting but not allowing the past to dictate our current behaviour.

5. Love Rejoices with the Truth

In a world where truth is often twisted, true love delights in what is honest and just. It means standing up for what is right and encouraging others to do the same.

6. Love Bears, Believes, Hopes, and Endures All Things

True love is resilient. It stands strong through trials and challenges, always hoping for the best and enduring the worst. This kind of love doesn’t give up easily; it perseveres.

Thank you again for joining us on today’s episode of “Mornings with Stephen Johnsy Podcast.” If you have found value in this episode, please recommend it to a friend or family member who would benefit from it. Also, if you’ve enjoyed the episode, please take a moment to leave a review and share it on your social media channels. This will help this podcast reach more people. Remember, you can connect with us on Instagram. The account is @morningswithstephenjohnsy.

Once again, thank you so much. Be encouraged today, friends, and remember that the journey is easier when we walk it together. Stay blessed, and know that God loves you!