All around us we can see an endless pursuit of love.
We look for it everywhere; in our homes and families, friendships, dating, relationships, marriage and religion. But, what is love, and where can we go to find lasting love for our lives?
Speaking about the "fruits" of spiritual well-being the Bible states in 1 Corinthians 13:13.....
"...But the greatest of these is LOVE...."
So, what is LOVE? "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, 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 trust, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails." (1 Corinthians 13:4)
"......and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing."
(1 Corinthians 13:1)
There are several different meanings of LOVE.... in all cultures, languages and religions. This may be seen as a defining trait of humanity, this is, love is a quality that makes one human.
Love is essentially an abstract concept, easier to experience than to explain.
In the Christian faith, it is believed that God is the source of love. "Let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God because God is love." (1 John 4:8)
There are several Greek words for LOVE that are regularly referred to:
**Agape - Agape is charitable, selfless, altruistic and unconditional. It is love that requires nothing in return. It is parental love seen as creating goodness in the world, it is the way God is seen to love humanity.
**Phileo - Phileo is a human response to something that is found to be delightful. Also known as "brotherly love".
**Eros - Eros is passionate love, with sensual longing and desire. It does not have to be sexual.
**Storge - Storge means affection; natural affection like that of a child-to-parent love.
Regardless of your cultural or religious view - Love is a splendid thing! It is powerful!
We must love our Creator, love ourselves and love one another. We must even go so far as to love our enemies and those who try and hurt us.
Matthew 5:43-48
Amplified Bible (AMP)
43 You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy;
44 But I tell you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,
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