Where is Love?
Love is found within ourselves and in our relationships with other people. Love is expressed through acts of kindness, compassion, and understanding. It can also be found in music, literature, art, and nature.
Love multiplies when it is shared with others. When we give love to others, they in turn give love to others, and the cycle continues. It can also be multiplied by experiencing different types of love such as romantic love, friendship, family love, and unconditional love. When we share love with those around us, we create an atmosphere of joy and acceptance that can be felt by all.
Biblical love is a selfless, sacrificial love that puts the needs of others above one’s own. It is an unconditional love that is not based on emotions or feelings, but on faith and obedience to God. Biblical love is an action and a commitment to serve and honor others, even if it means sacrificing one’s own desires and comfort. It is a love that is patient, kind, and forgiving, and seeks to restore relationships. The Bible describes love in 1 Corinthians 13: 4-8, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, 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 trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.” The Bible goes even further and commands “…Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”
Love in its purest form with no other agenda could be thought of as the cure all. Love covers a multitude of sins and yet holds on to none of them, and proceeds with fresh grace and mercy. Practicing love can be difficult. We have an expectation of the emotion being reciprocated and that’s not always the case. Learning to give love regardless of the return can improve your current relationships and how well you are able to love yourself and others.
Here’s 10 ways to practice love with the people in your life:
1. Spend quality time with the people you love. Show them you care by taking the time to listen to them and talk with them.
2. Show physical affection. Give hugs, kisses, and other physical expressions of love.
3. Show appreciation. Acknowledge the things you love about the people in your life.
4. Give thoughtful gifts. Show your love by giving thoughtful gifts that show you understand and appreciate the person.
5. Spend time together. Make time to do things together, even if it’s just having dinner or watching a movie.
6. Express gratitude. Show your appreciation and thankfulness for the people in your life.
7. Communicate openly. Talk openly and honestly with the people you love. Share your feelings and listen to theirs.
8. Spend time in nature. Nature can be a great way to refresh and connect with the people you love.
9. Give compliments. Compliment the people you love and let them know how much they mean to you.
10. Take part in acts of service. Show your love by taking part in acts of service, such as volunteering or helping a friend in need.
In closing, keep in mind that love does not divide, the more people you love does not mean that another person gets less love. The more you love the more you have to give and receive. So, in the end, where is love? Love is in you, to be shared by you and received by you. Practice giving and receiving love it will truly change your view of yourself and others.
