Real Love

Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil. (1 Corinthians 13:4-5)

A song written a while back said, “I want to know what love is.” The world around us is constantly seeking to know love. People get into numerous relationships trying to find it. They design their lives around getting more of it. The best way to learn about love is to ask the One who is Love; “God is love” (1 John 4:8).

The Apostle Paul wrote a detailed definition of what it looks like to truly love others. The phrase charity suffereth long and is kind highlights two foundational aspects of love: patience and kindness. Patience, or long-suffering, means enduring difficult situations and people without becoming angry or upset. It means that when we love, we are also willing to bear with other’s faults and shortcomings. On the other hand, kindness is about actively seeking to do good to others, showing compassion, and being considerate in our actions and words.

Paul continued his in-depth description, saying that love does not envy. Envy is the opposite of love because it resents the blessings that come into other people’s lives. True love does not boast or seek to draw attention to itself. It is not arrogant or prideful but humble and modest. Godly humility allows us to celebrate others' achievements without feeling threatened. Real maturity is found in how you react when favor finds your friend before it shows up for you.

Practical Application

Be patient with others, especially in difficult situations. Show God's love through kindness in your actions and words, offering help and encouragement whenever possible. 

Philippians 2:4; Galatians 6:2

Vanity or Virtuous

I hate vain thoughts: but thy law do I love. (Psalm 119:113)

What are the vain thoughts that the Psalmist described? Vain describes any thought that is empty, futile, or worthless. Vain thoughts include doubts, fears, temptations, and thoughts that lead us away from God’s truth. Not only are vain thoughts entirely unproductive, but they also have the potential to be incredibly harmful. We must also develop a hatred toward vain thoughts. When the enemy brings you thoughts contrary to God's Word, you must attack them immediately.

On the other hand, the Psalmist said that he loved the law of God. God’s law represents His Word. Loving God’s Word means that you are valuing, following, and delighting in His instructions. Love cannot be shown unless you are spending time with it. When we love the Word, we meditate on the Scriptures and allow God’s instructions to guide our lives. 

While the Psalmist discussed hating and loving, he also discussed training our minds in how and what to think. A mind submitted to the Holy Spirit actively chooses to focus on God’s Word rather than being swayed by negative or empty thoughts.

If you desire to grow in God, you must be vigilant about what thoughts you allow to occupy your mind. Identify and reject any thoughts that are empty, negative, or harmful. Then, immediately counter them when they show up by speaking the Word and praying. Declare God’s truth over your mind and reject lies from the enemy.

Practical Application

Make it a priority to read and meditate on Scripture daily. Let God’s Word fill your mind and heart, guiding your thoughts and actions. When negative thoughts or temptations arise, speak against them in Jesus' name. Declare God’s truth over your mind and reject lies from the enemy. 

James 1:8; James 4:8

The Majority of your Thoughts

In the multitude of my thoughts within me thy comforts delight my soul. (Psalm 94:19)

When you analyze about what you “think about,” what thoughts do you have throughout the day? Are they positive or negative? Are they complaining or full of gratitude? Our minds are often bombarded with worries, doubts, and concerns. Life’s challenges, uncertainties, and daily responsibilities can lead to a whirlwind of mental activity. If we allow them, they can become overwhelming, causing anxiety, stress, and other mental issues.

It’s not enough to dwell on doubt and negativity for an hour and then throw one Scripture at the end to fix it. You must make a concerted effort to have most of your thoughts based on the Word of God. Meditating on Scripture and remembering God’s faithfulness will give you peace and reassurance that cannot be found in anything in the world.

The comfort that comes from God does more than alleviate stress; it also brings joy to our souls. This joy goes beyond our circumstances and situations and is rooted in the assurance that God is with us, that He loves us, and that He is in control. 

Don’t allow your thoughts to run away from you; choose always to have God and His Word on your mind. When you tip the scales to ensure that God’s Word becomes the majority of your thinking and you give His way the most weight in your life, you will notice that His peace comes quicker, His joy is more accessible to tap into, and you find yourself assured that God will do what He said He will do. Reflect on His past faithfulness and the ways He has provided for you. Let these memories of God’s goodness bring joy and strengthen your faith in the most challenging struggles.

Practical Application

Recognize that you can control your thoughts. When negative or overwhelming thoughts arise, counter them with God’s promises and truths. Speak the Word over your life and declare God’s faithfulness. When you speak God’s Word, you shift your focus from your worries to God’s power and love.

Psalm 42:11; Isaiah 43:2