A BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVE ON LOVE

Love is one of the most powerful and foundational themes in the Bible. While the world often defines love based on emotions, attraction, or personal benefit, Scripture provides a deeper, unchanging perspective—one rooted in God's nature and character.

One of the clearest biblical definitions of love is found in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, often called the “Love Chapter”:

"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."

This passage reminds us that biblical love is unconditional—not based on what others do or deserve but rooted in selflessness and grace. So how can we live out this kind of love in our daily lives?

1. Love Your Neighbor as Yourself

Jesus made it clear that loving others is a fundamental command."The second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ No other commandment is greater than these." — Mark 12:31

True love is outward-focused, seeking the well-being of others just as we care for ourselves.

2. Serve Others with Love

Jesus demonstrated love through service, setting an example for us to follow."And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet. I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you." — John 13:14-15

Love is more than words—it’s action. Serving others, even in small ways, reflects Christ’s love in us.

3. Speak the Truth in Love

Love doesn’t ignore the truth; instead, it communicates truth with kindness and wisdom."Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church." — Ephesians 4:15

Our words should uplift, guide, and correct in a way that brings others closer to God.

4. Forgive as Christ Forgave

Forgiveness is an essential expression of love, mirroring God’s grace toward us."Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you." — Ephesians 4:32

Holding onto resentment only hardens the heart, but forgiveness frees us to love fully.

5. Live a Life of Sacrificial Love

True love is selfless, willing to give without expecting anything in return."Brothers and sisters, in view of all we have just shared about God’s compassion, I encourage you to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, dedicated to God and pleasing to Him. This kind of worship is appropriate for you." — Romans 12:1

Sacrificial love mirrors the love of Christ, who gave Himself for us.

God’s Love is Eternal

While the world’s definition of love may shift, God’s love remains constant. In 1 John 4:8, we are reminded:

"Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love."

Love is not just something God does—it is who He is. As we grow in faith, let’s strive to reflect His love in our actions, words, and relationships.