The Bible presents a view of love that is profoundly different from cultural definitions, personal feelings, or fleeting emotions. True love, according to Scripture, is not merely a sentiment or attraction; it is a deliberate choice to act for the good of another, guided by God’s principles and empowered by His Spirit. In understanding what love truly is, believers are called to examine the standard outlined in 1 Corinthians 13, often called the “love chapter,” which describes the qualities, motives, and endurance of love as God intends it to be.

The first and most fundamental truth about love is that it is rooted in God Himself. 1 John 4:7 to 8 declares that God is love, and that anyone who does not love does not know God. This means that love is not primarily about what we feel or what we receive from others. It is about reflecting the character of God through our actions, thoughts, and attitudes. Because God is love, every act of true love must reflect His holiness, patience, mercy, and faithfulness. Love is a mirror of God’s nature, not merely human sentimentality.

1 Corinthians 13 defines love with concrete attributes that distinguish it from superficial or selfish affections. The chapter states that love is patient and kind. Patience is enduring hardship, irritation, or provocation without responding in anger or resentment. Kindness is actively seeking the good of others, showing compassion, generosity, and encouragement. Love does not envy or boast. Envy is the desire to have what another possesses, and boasting is the prideful elevation of oneself. True love is humble, free of comparison and self-centred pride, instead valuing the well-being and success of others above personal gain.

Love, according to the Bible, is not rude, self-seeking, or easily angered. These qualities point to relational attitudes that destroy unity and peace. To act in love is to choose to honour and serve the other person, even when it requires restraint or sacrifice. Love keeps no record of wrongs. This principle teaches that true love forgives past offences and does not dwell on grievances. Forgiveness is an essential component of love because relationships inevitably involve mistakes, misunderstandings, and failures.

Another defining feature of biblical love is its endurance. 1 Corinthians 13 emphasises that love always protects, always trusts, always hopes, and always perseveres. Unlike emotions that fluctuate with circumstances, love is steady and enduring. It seeks the good of the other over time, remains faithful through trials, and continues even when feelings fade or situations are difficult. This is why love is often tested in times of conflict or hardship. True love is proven in perseverance and the commitment to act rightly regardless of the challenges.

The Bible also teaches that love is not limited to those who are easy to love or those who reciprocate affection. Jesus commanded in Matthew 5:44 to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. This kind of love is radical because it extends grace and kindness to those who may oppose, hurt, or reject us. It is not natural for human inclination, but through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, believers are called to imitate Christ in showing unselfish, sacrificial love to all people, even the undeserving.

True love also involves action and sacrifice. 1 John 3:16 reminds believers that we know what love is by the example of Christ laying down His life for us. Love is not only about words or good intentions; it is demonstrated through deeds and willingness to sacrifice for the benefit of another. In practical terms, this could include serving others, defending the weak, speaking truth in gentleness, giving of resources, and forgiving wrongs. Love is active, not passive, and it is measured by what one is willing to do rather than what one feels.

In the context of Christian relationships, true love is the foundation for marriage, friendship, family life, and community. Ephesians 5:25 calls husbands to love their wives as Christ loved the church, giving Himself for her. This illustrates the depth of sacrificial, unconditional love that serves and prioritises the other’s needs. Children are instructed in Colossians 3:21 to obey and honour their parents, and parents are instructed to nurture children in love. Christian love shapes all human interactions, setting a higher standard than self-interest, convenience, or emotion alone.

Finally, true love is eternal and points to God’s ultimate plan for humanity. While human expressions of love are imperfect and sometimes flawed, God’s love is perfect and unending. 1 Corinthians 13:13 concludes that the greatest of all virtues is love. Faith and hope are essential, but love is the eternal virtue that endures beyond this life. Love is not merely a human experience; it is the reflection of God’s nature in action and the goal toward which all relationships should aim.