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.
Choose Thankfulness
For years, nothing in King David’s life looked “good.” His family underestimated him, giants despised him, and his father-in-law spent years trying to kill him. But the whole time, David clung to a promise that God would establish him, and eventually make him king of Israel.
David never gave up or gave in—he chose to stay close to God and wait for Him to act. And when God showed up, this is how David responded:
“Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.”
1 Chronicles 16:34 NIV
David knew that even when life didn’t look good, he served a God who IS good. And this same God is still actively fighting for us now.
Through His Son, Jesus, He has given us continual access to Himself. We can never lose His unfailing love toward us—a love that endures forever, no matter what goes on around us.
David recognized this, and proclaimed it. And every day, we have the opportunity to do the same.
Here are 2 practical ways that we can respond to ...