AUG Magazine | Page 37

Love is Powerful “Love” is a topic that is at the core of the Christian Gospel. John 3:16 tells us that “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.” God’s love for mankind is evident, and Christ’s call for believers to replicate that love is also at the core of living an authentically gospeldriven life. 1 Corinthians 13 — and in particular 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 — is without a doubt one of the most popular portions of scripture in the Bible. Written by the Apostle Paul, perfectly summarizes the power, characteristics and importance of love. “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 selfseeking, 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, and always perseveres.” Love Is Patient Many of us struggle with patience, but this particular Corinthians love verse encourages us to be patient and to remember that love, in and of itself, is patience. This can be a convicting message to some of us, but it’s important to consider how it plays out in our own lives. Love Is Kind The Bible repeatedly tells us to love neighbors more than ourselves, to help strangers and to live out kindness. So, it should come as no surprise that that love is also kindness. As we consider how we treat friends, family and strangers. Love Isn’t Boastful or Prideful Love doesn’t boast, nor is it prideful. These 37