KepThoughts (7 of 8): The ABCs of Love

Good morning everyone,

As we approach the end of February 2024, my heart is overflowing with joy. This week marks special occasions for my loved ones: my husband's birthday, my dad's birthday, and my parents' wedding anniversary. With so much to celebrate, I'm truly grateful! Weeks like this really put so much into perspective for me. I reflect on the goodness of God, the mercy of God, and the love of God. I'm truly blessed and need to remind myself of this daily.

Today, let's immerse ourselves in the timeless wisdom of 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, often hailed as the "Love Chapter." I like to call it the ABCs of love as it breaks down what love is all about. So, let's unpack it together and see how these verses can color our lives with love. We're at the finish line with this series - let's finish strong!

We see in verse 4 of the chapter that love takes the scenic route. It's not in a rush, but it waits patiently, understanding that good things take time. It's like that friend who listens to your long stories without interrupting. (I adore friends like that!) It's not just patient; it's kind. Think of moments when someone's patience and kindness left their mark in your own life.

The passage continues by discussing envy and pride. Envy and pride are compared to weeds that suffocate the garden of love. True, authentic love doesn't view others with jealousy or brag about its accomplishments. It remains humble, acknowledging the value in others without seeking to outshine them. Genuine happiness is found in celebrating the success of others without any trace of envy. Can you remember a time when you genuinely celebrated someone else's success without feeling jealous? (The topic of jealousy has been brought to my attention a few times by some of you and I promise to spend a good amount of time on this topic in the future. You have my word.)

In addition, love doesn't play dirty; it's respectful and considerate. I love the word considerate. It's not a word that I hear used regularly but it is so important if you want to foster a positive relationship with the people around you. What does it even mean to be considerate person? A considerate person takes the time to understand how their behavior affects others and makes an effort to act in ways that are thoughtful and mindful of others' feelings, needs, and preferences. Imagine a love that honors and uplifts, putting others first because it's the right thing to do. How have you experienced or expressed this kind of love in your relationships?

The passage goes on to introduce anger. Anger is like a storm, while love serves as the anchor that keeps us steady. True love is not easily provoked or offended; instead, it possesses a remarkable quality — forgiveness. Love does not keep a record of wrongs. As I reflect on these words, I realize that although I may not have a physical list of grievances, I have been keeping one mentally. It's time for honesty with myself. However, today, I am committed to doing the necessary work to heal and love genuinely. I recognize that healing must come first, and then love will naturally follow. Think of a time when you forgave someone, and it made things better. How can forgiveness play a part in your story?

Lastly, love and truth are inseparable partners. Love rejoices in the truth, remaining steadfast in honesty and integrity. Deception has no place in love. Love serves as a protector, offering trust, hope, and unwavering support. Take a moment to contemplate times when love acted as your defender, confidant, beacon of hope, and steadfast ally in your life.

Take a breather and think about each aspect of love presented in the scripture. Any moments that pop up in your mind where you've seen or been a part of this beautiful love mission? What about areas where you can do better? How can you be more patient, kind, humble, selfless, forgiving, and truthful? I've told you the area I need to do better so keep me in your prayers as I put in the work.

Dear God, thank you for the beautiful blueprint of love found in 1 Corinthians 13. Help me embody these attributes in my daily life. Show me where I can grow in patience, kindness, humility, selflessness, forgiveness, and truth. May my love mirror Your perfect love. Amen.

As you go through the day and weeks ahead, let the ABCs of love guide your actions. Let it be a guiding force in your interactions, decisions, and responses. May your life reflect the love that is patient, kind, humble, selfless, forgiving, and grounded in truth—the love described in the timeless "Love Chapter."

Happy Birthday King T

2.28.24

Love,

Keps