Women's Devotional: For Women, by Womenنموونە

Love Songs

Quick. Name a song about love. Did you name a song that is popular now? Did you name a song that was “our song” with your first boyfriend? How about the last song that was played at your senior prom? Did you name a song by Elvis Presley? The Beatles? Elton John? Whitney Houston? Celine Dion? Taylor Swift? How about these favorites: “The Rose of Tralee” by C. Mordaunt Spencer (published in the 1800s) or “Lavender’s Blue” from the 1600s. Love songs have been around for a long time, and most cultures memorialize love through song.

But what song would you name if you were asked to name some songs about faith and hope? You may be able to name some great hymns. You may also think of some contemporary worship songs. But you may struggle a bit with the titles. For some reason, love songs outnumber faith songs or hope songs. Why is that?

In 1 Corinthians 13, Paul listed some attributes that fall into the great, but not greatest, category of things to sing about: faith and hope. But nothing can compete with the greatest attribute of all: love. In God’s book, love is the ultimate gift. If you’re going to be known for anything, let it be love. Your lifelong goal should be to embody the diverse characteristics of love found in 1 Corinthians 13.

Unfortunately, the English language is limited to only one word to describe the many types of love. As a result, our understanding of genuine love is inadequate; we tend to confuse one kind with another. The Greek language, however, has several words for love, such as eros, meaning romantic love, and philia, or friendship. And there are others. But Paul used the Greek word agape to describe love that is divine; this type of love originates with God. It is eternal; it never fails. Verses 4–7 describe the many facets of this preeminent type of love: patience, kindness, perseverance and hope.

Here’s a challenge for you: Live today seeking the greatest of all attributes. Try to express the heart of Biblical love in all that you say and do. Let today be your love song to everyone you encounter.

Reflection

• How has God shown his love for you in a very tangible, personal way? How can you show him you love him in return?
• Review verses 4–7. Which aspect of love is the most difficult for you to express?
• How will you show love to those you encounter today?