But the Greatest of These is Love

And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.
I Cor. 13:13 


I Corinthians 13. The Love Chapter. Almost required reading at weddings. And for good reason. God gave Paul incredible insight into the power of love, and what love is, and isn't.


How important is love?

In introduction to his topic of love, Paul says, "And now I will show you the most excellent way." He goes on to say that even if he could speak all languages, including the language of angels, without love he would have nothing to say. Even if he had all knowledge and understanding, or faith that could move mountains, without love he would be nothing. Even if he gave everything away, including his own life, without love he would gain nothing.

Wow. That's pretty important, especially considering Paul's story.

 So, how do we do this love thing right?

Something this important, something that, according to God's Word, is greater even than hope and faith, is worth our attention. It's worth doing right. How do we do that? We have to understand what it is, and what it is not.

What love is.

Love is patient and kind. Love rejoices in truth. Love protects, trusts, hopes, and perseveres. Love never fails. Love is greater than even hope and faith.

What love is not.

Love does not envy. Love does not boast, nor is it proud. Love is not rude, or selfish. Love does not come to anger easily, and keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil.

But it's Valentines Day! Where's the romance? 

It's in there. Don't you see it? What is more romantic than a patient and kind lover? Romance novel covers almost always portray the hero standing over a helpless (and breathless) maiden in distress, protecting her. If trust, hope, and perseverance no matter what comes is not romantic, then what is? Unfailing Love. That begs to be on the big screen featuring your favorite love story actor and actress.

On the flip side, is envy romantic? "Hey, honey; I sure wish I had Joe's wife here. She's a real looker." Did that make your toes tingle? Didn't think so. How about boasting? "Gee, Bob, it's a good thing I make more money than you so we can afford this nice restaurant, huh?"  Your husband just slipped under the table. Pride. Rudeness. Selfishness. Anger. Oh, and don't forget score-keeping. Want to kill the romance? Pick one. It'll be a long, cold, and lonely night after any of those.

There are a lot of definitions of love out there.

I think a good definition of love is how we treat others. Want to love, and be loved? Be patient. Be kind. Trust, hope, protect, persevere. Never give up. Do these and the results of love--those things the world wants you to believe is love--will be yours as well.