“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…” — 1 Corinthians 13:4–5 (NIV)
When we hear 1 Corinthians 13, many of us think of weddings. But Paul didn’t write these verses only for romantic relationships. This passage shows us what God’s love looks like in action — love that we are called to show in every relationship, including friendships, family ties, church communities, and even with those who are hard to love.
1. Love Is Patient
Patience is not just about waiting; it’s about how we act while we wait.
In friendships and relationships, patience means giving others time to grow, learn, and change — just as God is patient with us (2 Peter 3:9).
Application: The next time your friend or spouse repeats the same mistake, respond with gentleness instead of frustration.
2. Love Is Kind
Kindness is love in motion. It’s more than words; it’s showing up for someone, giving them the benefit of the doubt, and being quick to encourage.
Application: Send a message to someone today just to remind them they’re loved and appreciated.
3. Love Is Humble
Paul says love “does not boast” and “is not proud.” Christ-like love values the other person’s needs above our own, without keeping score.
Application: In a disagreement, pause and listen before defending yourself. Seek understanding before seeking to be understood.
4. Love Is Forgiving
Love “keeps no record of wrongs.” If we are holding onto old hurts, our relationships will struggle to thrive. Forgiveness doesn’t mean ignoring the pain, it means choosing to release it so it doesn’t control you.
Application: Pray for the strength to forgive someone today, even if they haven’t apologized.
5. Love Protects, Trusts, Hopes, Perseveres
Paul finishes with this beautiful truth:
“It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” (v.7)
Christ-like love doesn’t give up easily. It believes the best about others, and it stands strong even when things get hard.
My Journey of Learning This Love
I used to love only when it felt easy. When the other person agreed with me, supported me, or made me feel good. But the Lord gently showed me that my love was conditional.
Through consistent time in the Word and prayer, He’s been teaching me to:
- Show kindness when I want to be short-tempered.
- Forgive even when my feelings say “hold a grudge.”
- Put others first without keeping a tally.
This hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been deeply freeing. The more I love like Christ, the lighter my heart becomes.
How You Can Love Like Christ This Week
- Read 1 Corinthians 13 every morning and pick one quality to focus on for the day.
- Pray before hard conversations, asking God to help you respond with patience and kindness.
- Keep a “gratitude list” for the people in your life. It’s harder to stay angry when you’re thankful.
Final Word
Loving like Christ isn’t natural, it’s supernatural. We can only live out 1 Corinthians 13 through the power of the Holy Spirit.
When we choose this kind of love, our friendships deepen, our relationships strengthen, and the world sees a clearer picture of Jesus through us.
Challenge for This Week:
Ask God to show you one relationship where you can start loving more like Christ. Then take one tangible step to do it no matter how small.
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Stay blessed.
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