Day 4

The key to relationships isn't finding the right person. It's becoming the right person. One of those qualities of becoming the right person is love, and in 1 Corinthians 13, we read an amazing list of what love is and how it acts. Without love, even the most sacrificial and valiant acts are considered worthless. But with love, one can serve others in the most excellent way 1 Cor. 12:31). In fact, "the Greek word that is used in 1 Corinthians 13 for love (agape), is a word that simply means 'the ultimate act of self-sacrifice.' It is a word which refers to the ultimate act of sacrificing oneself for the good of someone else...love is not an act of the emotion, it is an act of the will. To love somebody by an act of self-sacrifice is not a feeling, it is a determination that you make in your mind that this is right and this is what you will do" (MacArthur, see additional resource below for more). After reading 1 Cor. 13, consider these questions:

Evaluate:

• Which of these qualities in the list is most difficult for you to exhibit? 
• What quality do you value most in other people (dating relationship, spouse, friend)?

Reflect:

• What quality(ies) of love listed in 1 Corinthians 13 do you need to practice?
• If single, do you need to put a pause on dating relationships to focus on your walk with God? How can you put on sacrificial love towards others?
• If married, what needs to change for you to become the best spouse possible? How can you put on sacrificial love towards your spouse?

Additional Resource: