What is love?*

“Love is patient and kind: 

It endures patiently and shows kindness, even in difficult circumstances. 

Love is not jealous, boastful, or proud: 

It doesn't envy others, doesn't seek to draw attention to itself, and doesn't hold a high opinion of itself. 

Love is not rude: 

It doesn't act in a way that insults or disrespects others. 

Love does not seek its own way: 

It prioritizes the needs and well-being of others over its own desires. 

Love is not irritable and does not keep a record of wrongs: 

It doesn't get easily angered or hold grudges. 

Love rejoices in the truth, not in unrighteousness: 

It finds joy in what is right and just, and not in what is wrong or unfair.

 

Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things: 

It can handle anything that life throws at it, trusts in the best, remains hopeful, and perseveres through hardship. 

Love never fails: 

It is eternal and will remain even when other things pass away, like prophecies, speaking in tongues, and knowledge.”**

“Elaboration:

Love's Qualities:

The passage paints a picture of love as a powerful force that is patient, kind, and free from negative emotions like envy, boasting, and pride. 

It also highlights the importance of being humble and not seeking personal gain at the expense of others. 

Love's Action:

Love doesn't demand its own way, is not easily angered, and doesn't keep a record of wrongs. 

Instead, it rejoices in the truth and perseveres through all circumstances. 

Love's Endurance:

The passage emphasizes that love never fails, meaning it endures forever. 

Love's Context:

This passage is often used in a wedding context, but its core message about love extends beyond marriage, offering a framework for all relationships. 

Love's Relationship to Spiritual Gifts:

The passage highlights that while gifts like prophecy, tongues, and knowledge are valuable, those gifts will eventually become obsolete, while love will remain forever.”***

*1 Corinthians 13:4-8

**Google A1 Overview in depth breakdown of 1 Corinthians 13:4-8

***Google A1 Overview in elaboration of 1 Corinthians 13:4-8