Beloved, love is not merely an emotion; it is the essence of God Himself. It is the defining characteristic of our faith, the foundation upon which everything else is built. As we continue our journey Rooted in Virtue, this month, we focus on the greatest of all virtues—love. Love is more than words; it is an action, a choice, a way of life. It is the heart of Christian living, the evidence of a life transformed by the presence of Christ.
The Apostle Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (NASB):
“Love is patient, love is kind, it is not jealous; love does not brag, it is not arrogant. It does not act disgracefully, it does not seek its own benefit, it is not provoked, does not keep an account of a wrong suffered, it does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; it keeps every confidence, it believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”
Love is not just about how we feel—it’s about how we live. It is a virtue that must take root in our hearts and bear fruit in our relationships, our service, and our daily walk with God.
What Is Love?
The word love is often misunderstood. In our culture, love is often reduced to a fleeting emotion or a romantic feeling. But biblical love, agapé love, is deeper and more profound. It is the selfless, sacrificial, unconditional love that comes from God.
Jesus Himself said in John 15:12 (NASB):
“This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you.”
To love as Jesus loves is to put others before ourselves, to serve with humility, and to show compassion even when it is undeserved. It is not based on how we feel but on the commitment to reflect God’s love in all we do.
Four Ways to Practice Love and Compassion
1. Love Is Rooted in God’s Love for Us
Before we can love others, we must first understand and receive the love of God. Scripture tells us in 1 John 4:19 (NASB):
“We love, because He first loved us.”
God’s love is not based on our performance; it is freely given. When we recognize that we are fully loved by Him, we are empowered to love others without fear or reservation.
Application: Spend time this week meditating on God’s love for you. Reflect on His grace, His forgiveness, and His constant presence in your life. Let His love fill you so that you can pour it out to others.
2. Love Requires Action, Not Just Words
It is easy to say we love, but love must be demonstrated through our actions. 1 John 3:18 (NASB) exhorts us:
“Little children, let’s not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth.”
True love is found in the way we care for others—the kindness we show, the sacrifices we make, and the way we extend grace even when it’s difficult.
Application: Look for practical ways to show love this week. Help a neighbor, encourage a friend, be patient with someone who is struggling, or simply take time to listen.
3. Love Extends Even to Our Enemies
One of the most radical teachings of Jesus is that love is not just for those who are easy to love. We are called to love even those who hurt us. Luke 6:27 (NASB) says:
“But I say to you who hear, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you.”
Loving our enemies does not mean we condone wrongdoing, but it does mean we choose forgiveness over bitterness, grace over revenge, and compassion over hatred.
Application: Is there someone you need to forgive? Ask God for the strength to let go of resentment and to extend love even where it is difficult.
4. Love Is the Mark of True Discipleship
Jesus made it clear that love is the defining characteristic of a believer. John 13:35 (NASB) declares:
“By this all people will know that you are My disciples: if you have love for one another.”
The world is watching how we live. When we love as Christ loves—selflessly, unconditionally, and sacrificially—we testify to the power of the Gospel. Our love should set us apart, drawing others to Jesus.
Application: Make it a priority to love intentionally. Be known as someone who reflects the love of Christ in your words, actions, and interactions.
Short Prayer
Heavenly Father, fill our hearts with Your love. Teach us to love as You love, to extend grace as You extend grace, and to serve with the same compassion You have shown us. May our lives be a testimony of Your unfailing love. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Beloved, love is the greatest virtue because it is the very nature of God. To be Rooted in Virtue is to be rooted in love—a love that is patient, kind, sacrificial, and unwavering. When we love as Christ loves, we reflect the heart of the Father and fulfill the greatest commandment.
Let us not just talk about love—let us live it. Let it shape our words, our actions, and our witness to the world. As we remain in Him, may His love flow through us and bring healing, restoration, and hope to those around us.