The word “love” is often used carelessly. In the Bible, however, the word love carries much more weight than just feelings that come and go, it involves an act of the will. It describes a “decided” love between people, love for God, and the love God has for us. As a matter of fact, 1 John 4: 8 says God is love. He doesn’t just show it or express it; it’s His nature. In 1 Corinthians chapter 13 (often called the “Love Chapter”), there’s an incredible list describing God’s type of love. Real love. Eternal love. Divine love. Durable love that withstands the pressures of life’s emotional winds.

So, with that in mind, consider the words in 1 Corinthians 13 matched up with people. This is the practical ways God shows His love every day:

With the anxious, He’s patient.

With the selfish, He’s kind.

With the popular, He’s not envious.

With the distracted, He doesn’t yell.

With the simple, He isn’t arrogant.

With the quiet, He isn’t rude.

With the hurried, He doesn’t seek His own.

With the accuser, He isn’t provoked.

With the repentant, He remembers no wrong.

With the unrepentant, He doesn’t enable.

With the seeking, He rejoices.

With the loving, He bears, believes, hopes and endures.

With the trusting, He never fails.

You are loved. How will you decide to love others today?