"So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love."
-1 Corinthians 13:13
I am sure that most of you have read the scriptures that eloquently explain to us what love should actually be. However, I myself have struggled with loving exactly the way we are commanded.
We see these words at most wedding ceremonies, and it seems so sweet and romantic, but do we really understand the meaning?
Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
On a daily basis just being consistently patient and kind can be hard for anyone. Then, we are called to not be irritable or resentful, which means you should have a joyful attitude at all times. I don’t know about you, but that isn’t the easiest thing to do. Our flesh definitely fights against that.
We as humans are selfish beings, and until we completely submit to Christ, showing complete joy and love will be hard for us. The people of the world have made it their mission to show us a different way to love, which if you pay attention, has caused confusion and heartache. God is not the author of confusion which is comforting in itself.
Learning to completely trust in this and lean on it has given me such peace. When we trust in ourselves, we tend to let ourselves down. We are human. That doesn’t mean we give up. God’s awesome grace and mercy that is freely given to us daily is a reminder that we don’t have to carry the burdens alone. He walks with us.
In marriage and in life, things get hard, but when we let go of doing it our way and totally surrender to Christ something amazing happens. The joy begins to flow and you learn to enjoy life. Even the little things bring you happiness. A big life full of material things and unwarranted expectations can be so draining, but a simple life filled with joy and love and fulfilling relationships makes for a much better life lived.
Remember that love is a big word and a big task, but we are told that God's love also covers a multitude of sins. I want to show that kind of love as well. I hope you will too.
We all could use a little more love, forgiveness and joy in our lives. Remember when you're frustrated or irritated with someone else that God chooses to love us even when we’re unlovable.
To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email ashley.carter@1819news.com.
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning.
