Love Never Fails

Love is patient. . .

it can wait a lifetime, and if it's from God, can hold out for His perfect timing.

Love is kind. . .

it goes out of its way to help and looks beyond just what makes "me"

feel good, finding the root of the need or hurt.

It does not envy. . .

it realizes that those I love belong to God, not to me, and they are His to use as He pleases.

It does not boast . . .

it would rather listen than talk, and doesn't need to compete or succeed to feel loved in return.

It is not proud. . .

it's willing to forgive, to admit fault, and to be the first to speak up when problems happen.

It is not rude. . .

it does not exclude others throughout exclusive focus on one,

but reaches out to all who need God's love.

It is not self-seeking. . .

it's always focused on what's best for others, and how God is/wants to be at work in their lives.

It is not easily angered. . .

it quickly lets the little things pass, and forgives quickly,

not allowing the big things to form into grudges.

It keeps no record of wrongs. . .

it doesn't remember past hurts, and never dregs up old pain during new conflicts.

Does not delight in evil, but rejoices in the truth. . .

it is pure, and focuses on keeping those it loves set apart for God.

It always protects. . .

not only does is physically protect others from harm, but also emotionally,

by guarding other's hearts.

Always trusts. . .

it realizes that God is in control, and that He has my best interests at heart.

Always hopes. . .

it thinks the best of othes, never assuming to worst.

Always perseveres. . .

it never fails to lose sight of the big picture,

and how God has first loved and pursued us, in our broken state.

Love Never Fails.

I Corinthians 13:5-7