NATURE OF LOVE
I Corinthians 13:1-8
Devotional:- "suffers long and is kind .. does not envy.. does not parade itself…” (V. 4).
Since men do not have the actual understanding of love, they turn it into lust. And now it is lust most people call love. It is the reason for most frustration and discouragement today. The scripture we read today revealed to us the true nature of love. It reveals to us that no man’s service shall be acceptable or profitable until he puts in love (v. 1-3). The beautiful thing about the nature oflove is that it is the nature of God, for God is love (1 John 4:8). And if God dwells in us, love should also be demonstrated in us.
The scripture says, love suffers long, that is why God loves to forgive his own people. Several times we have turned away from him, yet He does not turn away from us. He still looks for us. So also we should do for all we love. Love is kind, and that is why God has been kind to us. He doesn’t condemn us; He wants us to repent (Ezekiel 18:23). His kindness has blessed us with all that we have. Not that we qualify, but that He is kind. So also we should do to others.
Love does not envy anyone; it rather rejoices with them. It does not show off or puff up. He does not behave rudely. He is not selfish; He is not provoked nor thinks evil. He does not rejoice at others falling. It endures, believes in others and is hopeful in others. God believes and has hope in you. He never writes you off. He knows you will make it at last. And this is what you should demonstrate to others also. Your joy shall soon be full.
Prayer: Lord, help me to start to truly love.
“YOUR CHARACTER IS THE PROOF OF YOUR LOVE”