Scripture
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor 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 13:4-7)
Observation
God’s word in relation to love is succinct and clear as one read’s through the attributes of love.
Application
I've always felt that I have a love for people and their well-being. Yet, as I read through the attributes of what love is through God’s word; taking each word and applying it to my thoughts and actions, I came up with a different conclusion. If I am honest with myself, I have moments where I envy, where I boast, where I’ve dishonored others, have been self-serving, oh and angry, kept record of others’ transgressions. What a sobering reality check of my intent to love but the realization and fact that I’ve fallen short. There’s that old saying that actions speak louder than words, and this is the classical example of such. I am clearly reminded that I desire and plan to take a moment before I act to place God’s will and word of love before my actions.
Prayer
Dear Lord, thank you for reminding me that love is more than a feeling and great intent, but more so putting my heart and intent into action when it will not necessarily benefit or appease myself and my purpose. I pray that my love will be others before myself.
