1 Corinthians 13:4-7 - 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. 

Read 1 Corinthians 13 https://www.bible.com/bible/111/1CO.13.NIV for full context

Paul (the writer of this letter) doesn’t simply give us an explanation or definition of love, instead, he gives us an application and direction in how to love. For, if we are to truly show love to one another, we are to be patient, we are to be kind, to not be envious, to not boast or be arrogant, to not insist on our own way, to not be resentful, to not rejoice over sin-but rejoice in truth, to bear all things, to believe, to hope, and to endure to the end in ever situation.

This is how we are to love God and Love others.

As Christians, just like we aren’t called simply to know God but called to actively love Him, and out of that love for Him we are to love others and point others to Him. In the same way we are not merely called to know love, we are to experience it by becoming it. We are to become love through the many ways shown to us in 1 Corinthians. Love takes care, devotion, and attention. It’s not something that can be done passively. It’s a not just a daily decision, it’s a moment by moment decision. We must approach every single situation, trial, relationship, and activity with an active devotion to love and a fervent pursuit of it.

Choose to become love today by choosing patience in all circumstances.

Choose to become love today through uprooting envy and pride.

Choose to become love today by putting aside rude, arrogant, and dishonoring thoughts.

Choose to become love today by not insisting in your own way but listening to the needs of your neighbor.

Choose to become love today by not being irritable or resentful towards the downfalls OR successes of others.

Choose to become love today by forgiving others and keeping NO record of wrongs.

Choose to become love today by never rejoicing in sin but continually rejoicing in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night.

Choose to become love today by bearing, persevering, and enduring all things.

Choose to become love today by protecting the vulnerable, lost, and hurting.

Choose to become love today by believing that God’s promises are true and that they will stand.

Choose to become love today by placing your hope in what Christ has already accomplished, promised, and provided.

Choose to become love today…

Active Application:

1. Reflect on two areas listed above that are most difficult for you to “become love” then pray through them, asking God to strengthen you in those areas.
2. As you memorize this passage and look down at your wristband this week, don’t simply memorize the words. Actively apply them to your life and reflect on them as you go about your day.