Are you like me—quick to measure how you’re being loved by others? It’s easy to tally up the ways someone has let me down by not loving me the way I thought they should. My pride often keeps me from seeing the many ways my love also falls short.
I listened to a podcast, and the pastor asked the congregation to insert their name into 1 Corinthians 13, as a test to measure how well they love. I didn’t have to go much further than the first sentence to know I had some growing to do.
But the good news is, when we see the reality of where we fall on this spectrum, we can appreciate the great measure of love our Heavenly Father has for us.
In Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, he encourages them “to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of the fullness of God.” Ephesians 3:18-19
The fullness of God is found in Christ and through the Holy Spirit who empowers us to love others because of his love for us.
When I see the great chasm of God’s love for me—his immeasurable love that surpasses my human ability to really understand it—it humbles me and makes me want to love others better.
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.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Now, place your name on the arrows below and read the verse out loud. Ask the Holy Spirit to fill every area of your life to the fullest, so that you may love others as he has loved you.
Try this verse, too:
As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. Ephesians 4:1-3
Remember, it’s the power of the Holy Spirit who enables us to love others well.
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Hello there! I'm Valerie, a mom of four and wife of 27 years. My writing inspires others to cultivate courageous faith and find solace in trusting God, especially in moments of fear and uncertainty. Join me on this adventure as we explore the beauty of trusting God when we are afraid. 
Love this test! Straight from the Word of God! I am guilty of the same offense – focusing on how someone else may not be loving me well. Ugh! Thank you so much for the hope-filled reminder ♥
Great and positive words about loving others, Valerie!
Oh, may I so enjoy His love that I can overflow with love for others!
Thanks for a wonderful reminder~
Melanie
It’s about love! Great post, friend! Sharing this one all over. <3
Hey Valerie, I “love” this! 😉 I truly do and will be sharing! Thanks for the reminders straight from God’s word!
Thank you so much for sharing!
Of course Paul is describing Jesus here in 1 Corinthians 13, just after the spiritual gifts in chapter 12, putting our name in is a great way to remind us of His love, he keeps pouring into us even if we fall short of Him, Nice giveaway package.
He sure does! I’m so glad he helps us when we fall short.
I love this! Practical, fun and thought-provoking! I’m sharing this on pinterest.
Thank you for sharing, Alyson!
What a great way to examine ourselves in the midst of this season of love! Thanks for brining the truth to life!
Thank you for visiting Stacey!