Bible Passages to Explore: 1 John 4:8-11 & 1 Corinthians 13:1-13
“God is love…since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another” (I John 4:8b & 11). These verses leave no doubt. We are to love other people.
So, what is love? How do I show genuine, godly love to other people?
God has given us a beautiful definition of love in 1 Corinthians 13, also known as “The Love Chapter.” This chapter tells us how to love other people. According to “The Love Chapter” love…
* Is quick to accept people, flaws and all.
* Is polite and kind.
* Has the feelings, needs, and happiness of other people as it’s first priority.
* Is truthful and honest.
* Is forgiving of people’s shortcomings.
* Is protective of people, never wanting to do or say anything to hurt them.
* Trusts completely.
* Expect the best from people.
* Is willing to endure hard times and work with people to get through them.
* Never speaks badly about people.
“The Love Chapter” teaches us how God loves us and how we should love other people, beginning with these words: “If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing” (1 Corinthians 13:1 & 2). I encourage you to read this chapter, pray over it, asking God to show you how you can use its message to love people God’s way, and download the Inductive Study Guide so you can explore 1 John 4:8 and 1 Corinthians 13.
Let’s pray together. Heavenly Father, help each one of us to love everyone the way You love us. In Jesus’ name. Amen.