1. AWARE: Without love, I am ZERO! (1 Corinthians 13:1-3)

The Lord will bring His good work to completion within you. Therefore, practice patience with yourself and others. Trust in the Lord as you learn to lead a Love-Driven Life. Paul emphasizes that regardless of our linguistic prowess, even if we could speak in the tongues of angels, without love, our words are meaningless (v.1). Words can be used to manipulate and deceive (John 12:4-6). Even if we possess the wisdom of Solomon or the gifts of Daniel, if we use our talents to impress rather than to express God's message, it amounts to nothing (v.2).

As Dwight L. Moody wisely stated, "The world does not understand theology or dogma, but it understands love." Our identity as Jesus' disciples is revealed through our love for one another (John 13:34-35). When we fail to love, we deny the world the opportunity to witness Jesus "in the flesh." As John Wesley questioned, "Though we may not think alike, can we not love alike?" Indeed, we should! The Bible advocates generosity, but even if we give all to the poor without love, it holds no value (v.3). Some give not to reveal God's love but to boost their own self-esteem. Instead, we must give cheerfully and wholeheartedly to the Lord (2 Corinthians 9:6-7).

2. ASKING: Is my love the real thing? (1 Corinthians 13:4-7)

We must assess if our love aligns with God's Word (vv. 4-7). Even embodying just two aspects of the fruit of the Spirit – patience and kindness – can be challenging. Without the Holy Spirit, genuine love is beyond our reach (Ephesians 4:2, 32). Envy over others' blessings, as seen in Saul's attitude toward David, has no place in love (1 Samuel 18:8-9). Some people incessantly talk about themselves, but genuine love does not boast or inflate one's importance. Love behaves with humility, exemplified by Jesus' gentle response to vulnerable individuals like the woman who touched His robe (Mark 5:25-28, 32-34).

Are you always insistent on having your way? Are you easily provoked? A temper problem might alienate your loved ones (Proverbs 22:24-25). Holding grudges contradicts love; we have no right to keep a record of others' wrongs when Jesus has forgiven our sins (Colossians 2:13-14). Love does not rejoice in evil; actions contrary to God's will, like premarital intimacy, are not love. Instead, love rejoices in truth, even if painful truths come from those who know us best (1 Peter 4:8). Love believes and hopes, seeing the best in others and trusting in God's love, grace, and promises, especially in our challenging world. Love endures all things, persisting despite failures, disappointments, and opposition.

3. ASSURED: God’s love will complete me. (1 Corinthians 13:8-13)

In 1 Corinthians 13:8-13, the term "the perfect" refers to the ultimate fulfillment of God's plan, which will be realized in the glorious presence of Jesus Christ. This passage assures believers that even the most extraordinary spiritual gifts they possess will eventually fade away. When we see Jesus face to face, we will be transformed to be like Him. In this state of perfection, our faith - which sustained us through life's trials and uncertainties; and our hope - which inspired us to anticipate God's promises - will find their ultimate fulfillment. In the radiant presence of Jesus, these elements of faith and hope will merge into an eternal reality.

As followers of Christ, it is our calling to consistently remember and share the boundless love of God for humanity, a love so great that He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to redeem us (John 3:16). Sharing this love becomes our mission, a testament to the enduring and transformative power of God's eternal love for all through Jesus Christ.