I have come to know the word “love” as one of the most loosely used terms in the English language. So many use it and do not have a clue as to the characteristics of love. It is a very popular word, but you should not use it unless you know its real meaning. There are different types of love, but I am going to focus on what it means to love your fellow man. In order for us to solve the ills of this world and get along together, we must love one another as Jesus loves us. According to 1 John 4:20 (ESV), If anyone says, “I love God,” but hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen.
God clearly outlines the characteristics of love for our fellow man (what it does and what it does not do) in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (ESV): “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.” Leviticus 19:18 (NASB) declares, “You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the sons of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself; I am the LORD.” There, you have it when it comes to loving your fellow man.
Then what can you do to show love to your fellow man, as love is an action word? Pray for him. Check on him, especially if he has been ill. Take him something to eat just as a gesture of kindness. Give him a hand around the house if needed. Share and discuss some Scriptures. When you see your neighbor outside, strike up a good conversation that will benefit both of you in a special way. If your friend or neighbor has young children, offer to babysit them so that the couple can have a date night. If someone you know is “going through,” be there as a confidante, not as a busybody. In the words of one of the greatest civil rights leaders, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., “I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear.” Hopefully, this message will help ALL to know a little more about what “Love is …” Always abound in the faith, and never leave home without Him!