4 Laws of Love

4 Laws of Love May 9, 2013

Love is a powerful and beautiful gift from God. It is the foundation of every healthy relationship, but we tend to throw the word “love” around pretty casually. Just in the last 24 hours, I’ve said, “I love ice cream, I love my kids, I love my wife, I love that movie, I love that song, I love your shoes, I love that you are reading my blog right now….” You get the point!

With all the “love” floating around out there, I think it is easy to lose track of what love is really all about.

One of the most famous passages in the Bible (which you’ve probably heard read at weddings many times) is all about Love. I believe this poetic portion of Scripture from 1 Corinthians 13 outlines some key “Laws of Love” that will help us in our marriages, our friendships, our faith and every important relationship in life.

“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.1 Corinthians 13:4-8 

1. Love is an action, not a feeling. 

We talk about “falling in love” and usually what we mean is, “This person is really hot and has a great personality and I feel funny inside when I’m around them.” All those feelings can be a fun part of the process, but love isn’t defined by our feelings; it’s defined by our choices and commitments.

2. Love has no expiration date.

When we commit ourselves to someone (especially in the bond of marriage), our commitment must hold strong regardless of the changing circumstances of life. Even when we don’t have the strength to keep loving, God’s grace makes it possible. There is no real love without real commitment.

3. Love brings out the best in us.

Love doesn’t keep score or play games. That means that we must place the needs of the ones we love above our own needs and do so even when they’re being “unlovable.” God loves us even when we’re at our worst and then calls us to love each other with the same type of unending commitment. When we’re giving genuine love, it will bring out the best in us and the best in those we love. Love guides our motives, words and actions in a more life-giving way.

4. Love heals when life hurts.

The kindness, compassion and protection of love has healing power even in life’s most devastating circumstances. True love rushes into the pain when everyone else is running away. When you love someone, be the one who heals their wounds, not the one who inflicts them. Be the one who wipes away their tears, not the one who causes them.

Please keep these “laws” in mind every time you hear or say those beautiful words, “I love you!” 


Browse Our Archives