1 Corinthians 13
I’ve always been one to follow the rules. After all, I did cry my eyes out in grade school when my teacher moved my clothespin to “red light” since I wouldn’t stop talking. In my defense, I had no idea she was trying to get the classes’ attention!
So it’s natural, as a believer, that even though the works-based faith wasn’t taught to me, it came to me naturally because I cared so much about good behavior and following the rules.
It has also been a barrier in relating to others. My ugliest son has been my self-righteousness, and it’s been a thorn in my side when someone confides in me and I struggle to relate to them. I mean, how can I? I’m just trying to live the life God has called me to. Although, the irony is found in the fact that just that one thought has me failing to live the life God has called me to… to love God, and love others. The single most important commandment.
Most know 1 Corinthians 13 for the epitomizing definition of love – it’s even read at non-religious weddings or picked a part and used for controversial political issues. But have you ever studied what Paul says before 1 Corinthians 13:4?
“If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing.”
1 Corinthians 13:1-3 ESV
Twice recently I have been told that I may be fighting for good and God-honoring things, but if they are being put before my God and my love for others than they are no longer good and God-honoring.
But more than that, after being convicted of this in my own life and repenting to the Lord, He has been so faithful to me and showing the fruit in my relationships from loving Him first, others second, and the rest falls in line after.
A lot of times we like to focus on what love IS…
Patient
Rejoices in truth
Kind
Protects
Trusts
Hopes
Yet, what is it not?
It isn’t boastful, envious, or proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, and it is not easily angered or records wrongs. It disgusts me to read these words and realize it is what I have represented as “love” these past several months.
My sweet husband – he is my rock. He reflects Christ in how he is compassionate and merciful. So quick to forgive and gentle in love. I am always amazed by how God designed marriage to reflect His Pursuit of His Church, and easy to see His Love for us through His Word.
If you’ve ever wondered, or like me, need to be reminded, of how God loves us – read what love IS again. We are fully known by Him (vs. 12) and forever pursued (vs. 8). Love never ends.
“For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known.”
1 Corinthians 13:12 ESV
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