What Is Love

Read

1 Corinthians 12:31b “...And yet I will show you the most excellent way."

John 13:34-35 "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."

Think

We’ve all heard 1 Corinthians 13. It’s the go-to reading for weddings, the words you see on decorative pillows and Pinterest boards. But Paul didn’t write this chapter for romance or home décor—it was written to a messy, divided church. The Corinthians were busy one-upping each other, showing off their spiritual gifts like contestants on a reality show. Paul stepped in and said, “You’re missing the point. Let me show you the most excellent way: love.”

Remember the song “I Want to Know What Love Is”? It’s catchy, emotional, and – let’s be honest – it’s been stuck in your head at least once. But what if we actually let Apostle Paul answer that question? Love isn’t flashy or self-serving. It’s patient. It’s kind. It’s not about winning arguments or keeping score. It’s forgiving when forgiveness feels impossible. It’s sacrificing when no one’s watching.

Here’s the twist: Paul wasn’t describing something we just feel—he was describing something we do. Love is a choice. It’s choosing patience when you’re cut off in traffic, choosing kindness when a coworker gets testy, and choosing forgiveness even when you don’t feel like it. Love isn’t passive; it’s active.

Imagine if we lived this out. How would it change your relationships, your workplace, your family? The next time you want to roll your eyes or snap back, stop and ask, “What does love look like here?”

Paul called this “the most excellent way” for a reason. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it. Today, let’s do more than sing about love or decorate with it. Let’s live it. After all, the love Paul describes isn’t just beautiful or sappy—it’s transformational.

Apply

Pause before reacting. When you feel irritated or frustrated, take a deep breath and ask, “What does love look like here?” Choose patience and kindness in the moment.

Pray

Lord, help me to love others the way you have loved me—selflessly, patiently, and without condition. Open my eyes to opportunities to show kindness, forgiveness, and grace in my daily interactions. Let my actions reflect your love so others can see you through me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.