THE 24th OF SEPTEMBER
WHAT IS “AGAPE” LOVE NOT?
Love does not behave rudely, it is not selfish, it is not quick to anger, and it does not hold grudges. – 1 Corinthians 13:5
Love never manifests through inappropriate or disrespectful actions. A selfish heart is incapable of truly loving others and seeking their good. True love is shown by treating others with respect, lifting them up, and prioritizing their well-being over its own desires.
Love forms the basis of a calm and patient attitude. When we treat others with kindness and avoid demanding they conform to our own expectations, we are less prone to anger. Love increases our tolerance toward those we care for. Genuine love does not keep track of wrongdoings. This is how God treats us. Although He is just, He forgives us when we repent, and once forgiven, He wipes away our sins and no longer holds them against us.
SUGGESTED PRAYER
Glory and praise to Your Holy Name, dear Lord, for Your boundless love for me. You did not consider it too much to send Your Son to die in my place so that I may have life. Your love continues to astound me, despite my faults and shortcomings. I am overwhelmed by Your love, and I desire to give You my all, to love You with every part of my being, and to live to please You in all that I do. Thank You, Lord Jesus, for enduring rejection, mockery, suffering, and even death to welcome me into Your heavenly family. Father God, please grant me the grace to be more tolerant. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.
