Why Love Matters
It’s a satisfying feeling to do something you’re good at, and God created each one of us with talents so that we might become who He calls us to be. Some of us are good communicators. Others are good at offering solid wisdom. All of us have talents that can be used for God’s glory.
In 1 Corinthians 13 though, Paul emphasizes that without love, our God-given gifts cannot be used to their fullest potential. Paul even suggests that we can be the most talented people in the world, but if we don’t have God’s love in our hearts, our words and deeds are essentially meaningless.
“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. Love never fails."
1 Corinthians 13:4-8 NIV
Love is considered the greatest of all characteristics because it positively impacts everything—including how we use our gifts as a response to God’s love. When we know God’s love for us, we can have the faith to trust that He is who He says He is, and does what He promises to do.
God created faith, hope, and love so that we would continuously trust in His ability to restore the world to its best. He also created these things because when we use our gifts, and confidently expect they will be used for eternal purposes, He honors our trust and moves powerfully through us.
So take a moment and process where you have tangibly seen God’s love at work in your life. Then, ask God to reveal how you can exemplify His love to others this week.
God So Loves You
If you’ve experienced any part of the Bible, you probably know that John 3:16 highlights a vital part of the gospel message…
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
John 3:16 NIV
Think about it:
“For God so loved the world …”
God didn’t merely like the world, but He loved the world. He loved you so much that He created you, made a way for you, and desired a forever relationship with you.
“… that he gave his one and only Son …”
Because of God’s immense love for the world, He gave—generously and sacrificially—His one and only Son … because it’s only through His death that we can have life.
“… that whoever believes in him …”
It’s not enough to know that Jesus existed as a real, historical person—James 2:19 reminds us that even the demons believe that and shudder. Believing in Jesus means we choose to trust Him as Savior and Master...