"love That Changes Everything” 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Stand with and repeat after me.

This is my Bible

I am what it says I am

I have what it says I have

I can do what it says I can do.

Today I will be taught more of the Word of God

I boldly confess:

My mind is alert,

My heart is receptive.

I will never be the same.

I am about to receive the incorruptible, indestructible, ever-living seed of the Word of God.

I will never be the same—

I'll never be the same, in Jesus’ Name!

Amen.

“Love That Changes Everything”

Turn with me in your Bible to 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 and say, "Amen" when you are there.

"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.

Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres."

We live in a world that tells us love is just a feeling or a momentary attraction.

But God’s Word gives us a different picture—a love that is powerful, eternal, and transformative.

Paul wrote this letter to the Corinthians because they needed a reminder that Christian love is a choice and a lifestyle, not just a sentiment. Today, we will explore what it looks like to live out this love, and how it can transform your life, your relationships, and even your community.

“The Broken Window”

James owned a small bakery in a busy town. One afternoon, some children accidentally broke a window while playing outside. Most people would have been angry, demanded payment, or scolded the children.

But James chose love.

He cleaned up the mess, repaired the window himself, and invited the children inside to help make cookies. Not only did he teach them responsibility, but over time, those children returned to help him regularly. His bakery flourished, not only in business but in community and love.

Love doesn’t react in anger; it chooses patience, kindness, and restoration.

Think about a time someone hurt you. How did you respond? Did you react with patience or anger?

Consider how a choice to love could have changed that moment.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Let’s break down each attribute of love and what it looks like in practice:

Love is patient and kind

Patience is enduring without frustration; it is waiting without complaint.

Kindness is action; it is generosity, compassion, and thoughtfulness toward others.

Think of someone in your life who tests your patience.

Pray and ask God to help you respond with love and kindness this week.

Love is not envious or boastful

Love celebrates others’ victories and achievements instead of feeling jealous.

It lifts others up instead of putting yourself above them.

Are there areas in your life where envy has taken root? Ask God to purify your heart.

Love is not proud, self-seeking, or easily angered

Humility allows love to serve quietly and sacrificially.

Love does not demand its own way or dwell on offenses.

Think about the person who wronged you recently. Imagine responding with humility and forgiveness instead of pride or anger.

Love keeps no record of wrongs

Love releases grudges and lets go of past offenses.

Forgiveness is love in action.

Write down one offense you are holding onto and pray for God’s help to forgive fully.

Love always protects, trusts, hopes, and perseveres

True love is a long-term commitment; it never gives up.

Love protects relationships, trusts God’s plan, hopes for the best, and continues even when circumstances are difficult.

Identify one strained relationship in your life. Ask God to help you actively demonstrate love and perseverance in it this week.

Close your eyes right now and reflect on these questions:

Where do I need to be more patient or kind?

Where do I need to forgive and let go?

How can I trust, hope, and persevere in love today?

Let's have moment of silent prayer right now to give us answers for these questions.

Love in Action

Love your family intentionally; speak kind words, listen, and serve.

Love your friends authentically; encourage them, celebrate their victories, forgive mistakes.

Love your community courageously; be a source of peace and restoration.

Love yourself spiritually; know that God’s love flows through you and equips you to love others.

Today, I invite you to commit to living a life of God’s love.

If you are holding onto anger, bitterness, or unforgiveness, step forward now. Say:

"Lord, I surrender my heart to You. Teach me to love like You love. Fill me with patience, kindness, humility, forgiveness, and perseverance. Let Your love flow through me to everyone I meet. In Jesus’ Name, Amen."

I want to invite you to come forward for prayer right now. Our prayer team will pray with you.