Love is ....

In the 20^th and 21^st centuries the media, fairytales and movies have helped to warp our perspective on love. We think we know what love is based on what we have seen and read. But do we really? How are we at love if people do not treat us with love, kindness or respect; the boy doesn’t ever “rescue the girl” or what if we feel our rights are violated?

I needed to ask myself if love was really changing my life. Before I could even ask myself that question, I knew I needed a fresh understanding of love. This led me to begin an in-depth study of 1 Corinthians 13:4-7. Those four “love” verses people look to when they want an explanation on the subject. I suspected my results were going to challenge how I lived, and why I did what I did. I wasn’t prepared for what God was going to show me.

I took several versions of these four verses and compiled the texts. I then arranged the statements into 2 groups: what love does not do and what love looks like. I think my hermeneutical skills were lacking, but God has used my findings to open my eyes and give me a concrete measuring stick. I pray He will use them to give you a fresh understanding of love too.

Love	does not sing its own praises. is not competitive, rude or rash. does not behave inappropriately. is not irritable, easily provoked or resentful. does not keep a list of wrongs or hurts. is heartbroken over sin and injustices. never loses hope.
Love	is always patient, kind and benign. knows no limits on hope. is happy with the truth. knows how to be silent. always believes the best. can endure any circumstance.