1 Corinthians 13:4-8a

Playing the martyr, growing impatient, holding a grudge. All these things, plus more, can easily make sense in our minds. In fact, we can even explain away most reasoning when someone we love calls us out on these attitudes. We feel, in many cases, that we have the right to our attitudes because of what we have gone through or what someone has done to us. These verses say otherwise.

1 Corinthians 13:4-8a ~ "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, 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. Love never fails."

Whenever I read these verses, I am struck by two truths. Since God is love, all these things are true about His relationship with me, and it's a good thing I am saved by grace, because I do not embody these characteristics. 

I am in the process of memorizing these verses. Sure, many of us have grown accustomed to the flow and rhythm of it, but how often do you stop at each one of these characteristics and think of areas where you need to improve the way you love others and the God who loves you perfectly? 

My initial reaction to this challenge for myself brought cringes and excuses as to why I didn't need to spend time on that. My hope and prayer is that you can move beyond whatever excuse you just thought of as you read this in order to grow into the man or woman God created you to be. Strive for more.