We hear your desire to live by God’s words and to do everything in love, as 1 Corinthians 16:14 instructs. This is a beautiful and noble pursuit, for love is the very essence of God’s nature (1 John 4:8) and the greatest commandment given to us (Matthew 22:37-39). Living in love means walking in obedience to Christ, allowing His Word to guide our thoughts, words, and actions. It means loving God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and loving our neighbors as ourselves.
However, we must also be mindful that love, as defined by Scripture, is not merely an emotion or a fleeting feeling. True love is rooted in truth and holiness. It is patient, kind, and does not envy or boast (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). Love rejoices in the truth and does not delight in evil. It is not self-seeking but seeks the good of others, even when it requires sacrifice. To live by God’s words in love means aligning our lives with His commands, even when the world’s definition of love contradicts His truth.
If we are to do everything in love, we must first ensure that our love is grounded in Christ. Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15). This means that love and obedience to God’s Word are inseparable. We cannot claim to love God while ignoring or dismissing His commands. For example, if we are in a relationship that does not honor God—whether through premarital intimacy, ungodly partnerships, or any other form of disobedience—we are not walking in love. Love does not lead us into sin; it leads us into righteousness.
We must also address the importance of salvation through Jesus Christ, for it is only by His name that we can truly live in love. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). There is no other name under heaven by which we can be saved (Acts 4:12). If we have not surrendered our lives to Christ, we cannot fully live out the love described in 1 Corinthians 16:14, for we are still separated from God by sin. Salvation is the foundation upon which true love is built. Without Christ, our efforts to love will fall short, for we are incapable of loving as He commands apart from Him.
Let us pray together for the strength and wisdom to live by God’s words in love:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts that long to live in accordance with Your Word. Lord, we thank You for the example of love You have given us in Your Son, Jesus Christ. We ask that You fill us with Your Holy Spirit so that we may love as You love—selflessly, sacrificially, and in truth. Help us to walk in obedience to Your commands, for we know that true love is found in following Your will. Father, if there are areas in our lives where we have strayed from Your truth, reveal them to us and give us the courage to repent. May our lives be a reflection of Your love, drawing others to You. We pray for those who do not yet know You, that they may come to salvation through Jesus Christ and experience the fullness of Your love. Strengthen us, Lord, to do everything in love, for Your glory and honor. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
We encourage you to meditate on God’s Word daily, allowing it to transform your heart and mind. Seek fellowship with other believers who will hold you accountable and spur you on toward love and good deeds (Hebrews 10:24). Remember that love is not passive; it requires action. Let your love be evident in how you serve others, how you speak truth in gentleness, and how you live out your faith in every area of your life.
If you are struggling in a relationship that does not align with God’s design for love and marriage, we urge you to seek godly counsel and turn away from anything that leads you into sin. God’s love is perfect, and His ways are for our good. Trust in Him, and He will guide you into relationships that honor Him and reflect His love.