Expressing Love

Love is the greatest feeling/desire/emotion that can ever be experienced or given. Love that is true and in its fullness can only originate from God and all the love you need is from Him! Love is not limited to a feeling or emotion. Love is a choice. This is Jesus’ summary of love: “No one has greater love than to lay down his own life for his friends” (John 15:13). To be able to give out love you must first receive love from God (1 John 4:7-21, Galatians 5:22-23). It is also helpful to love yourself, which is to see yourself as God does (Mark 12:31). The following are some characteristics of love (1 Corinthians 13:4-8):

  • Endures with patience & serenity

  • Thoughtful & kind towards others

  • Rejoices with the truth

  • Perseveres through all situations

  • Looks for the best in all situations

  • Not self-centered

  • Not impolite

  • Not overly sensitive or easily angered

  • Does not keep a record of wrongdoings

  • Does not rejoice in unrighteousness 

Expressing Love

How people can receive and give love takes many forms! They may receive or show love more naturally in some ways than others. The following are some ways that people can express love:

  • Gifts (James 1:17, Matthew 7:11)

  • Physical Contact (John 13:22-25, Matthew 19:14-15, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13)

  • Encouragement (Hebrews 10:23-25, Acts 15:32, Romans 15:4-6)

  • Spending Time Together (John 14:15-31, Matthew 17:1, Mark 14:32-33)

  • Being Served or Serving Others (John 13:4-9, Mark 10:45, Matthew 25:44-45, Hebrews 6:10) 

Surrounding yourself with people who will love you will benefit you, and don’t be afraid to ask for people to show you love! Make it a practice to show these forms of love to one another! Most of all remember that God has and will continue to show His love for you! Receive it!

Application

Ask God to express His love for you and help you be aware of how He is expressing His love, and how He has.