It (love) always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.
1 Corinthians 13:7-8a
Some of this life’s greatest hurts are the result of a love that didn’t live up to its promises. We’ve all been let down by someone. Maybe when we look back through the years, we see where it was our love that did not keep its promises to another. God calls us to a higher love. The love God gives us is a sacrificial love that puts the needs of the one being loved first. This love will give for the good of the one it loves, even when it may not get anything in return.
The Apostle Paul describes how to live out this higher love. True love protects others from our own selfishness. Real love grants trust, even when we want to protect ourselves and not be vulnerable. Love keeps looking forward and hopes for a better future. Love will not give up but continues to put one foot in front of the other. Love will not walk away when you need it.
Heavenly Father, thank You for the way You love us. Thank You that Your love never gives up on us, even when we mess up. Lord, please help us to love each other better. Teach us to protect those around us from our selfishness. Help us to be more trusting in our relationships. May we be optimistic and working toward healthier relationships with those You have brought into our lives. Please help us to not be quick to give up on people, but to be understanding, patient, and forgiving like You have been with us. May the way we love others be a reflection of the way You have loved us. We thank You for helping us every day. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.
