Learning and Practicing Love: Living Out 1 Corinthians 13

In a world that often confuses love with fleeting emotion or conditional affection, the Bible offers a clear and enduring definition. Nowhere is this more beautifully captured than in 1 Corinthians 13, where the Apostle Paul lays out what real, godly love looks like—patient, kind, selfless, enduring.

What is Love?

Paul writes:
“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.”
(1 Corinthians 13:4–5)

This isn’t sentimental fluff. This is love with substance—agape love. It’s sacrificial, it’s deliberate, and it’s a command from God. It’s not about how you feel, it’s about how you act.

Why Does Love Matter So Much?

Paul concludes the chapter by saying:
“And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.”
(1 Corinthians 13:13)

Love isn’t optional for the Christian. Jesus Himself said the two greatest commandments are to:

1. “Love the Lord your God with all your heart…” and

2. “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
   (Matthew 22:37–39)

This kind of love is not just a personal virtue—it’s the core of Christian living. It reflects God's character and draws others to Him.

Learning to Love

No one is born loving like 1 Corinthians 13 describes. It takes intention, maturity, and God’s Spirit working in us. Start small:

• Be patient when someone frustrates you.

• Show kindness to a difficult coworker or classmate.

• Choose not to gossip or spread rumors.

• Forgive when you’ve been wronged.

• Pray for people who annoy you.

As we take small steps, we grow in love.

Love in Action

Jesus said, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
(John 13:35)

The early church grew not because of flashy events or clever marketing, but because people saw how Christians loved—deeply, sacrificially, and across social lines.

James reminds us that love is shown not just in words, but in actions:
“Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food... what good is it if you say to them, ‘Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,’ but do nothing about their physical needs?”
(James 2:15–16)

Love isn’t just about feelings. It’s feeding the hungry, caring for the lonely, and lifting others up even when no one’s watching.

Practicing Love Every Day

Here are a few ways to grow in love daily:

• Read Scripture – let God’s Word shape your heart.

• Pray for others – especially those who are hard to love.

• Serve someone – do something kind without expecting anything back.

• Apologize quickly – humility strengthens love.

• Listen well – sometimes the most loving thing you can do is just be present.

Final Thought

If you want to grow in your faith, start with love. As Paul says, “If I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.” (1 Corinthians 13:2)

Love is the evidence of God in us. Learn it. Practice it. Live it.  

P.S.

For years I've helped teach our 5th graders at church.  Several years ago they wanted to create a video for the church based on this verse.  Always made me smile so passing it along to you.  We also have a coloring card based on 1 Corinthians 13 that you can find more information on  here.