We know what love is because Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. – 1 John 3:16
Bible Verses About How Love Should Be
Love is Selfless
As we explore the essence of love, we learn that true love often means putting others before ourselves. When we engage in loving actions, we reflect Jesus’ life. His sacrifice stands as the ultimate example of selflessness, reminding us that love sometimes requires us to give up our own comforts for the sake of those we care for. We should strive to embody this kind of transformative love that draws us closer together as a community, as friends, and as family. In selfless love, we find unity, joy, and purpose.
Philippians 2:3
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3
1 Corinthians 13:5
“It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.” – 1 Corinthians 13:5
Galatians 5:13
“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” – Galatians 5:13
John 15:13
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” – John 15:13
Romans 13:10
“Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore, love is the fulfillment of the law.” – Romans 13:10
Love is Kind
Within our relationships, kindness becomes a fundamental part of how love is expressed. Kindness involves being considerate, compassionate, and gentle, reflecting God’s love towards us in our interactions. In our everyday life, we should strive to be kind to friends, family, and even strangers. Kindness can make a huge difference in our world, showing that love is not just a feeling but an actionable choice that brightens the lives of those around us.
Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32
1 Corinthians 13:4
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.” – 1 Corinthians 13:4
Colossians 3:12
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” – Colossians 3:12
Proverbs 3:3
“Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.” – Proverbs 3:3
Luke 6:31
“Do to others as you would have them do to you.” – Luke 6:31
Love is Forgiving
Forgiveness plays a monumental role in how love is experienced and shared. When we choose to forgive, we imitate God’s grace shown to us. Holding onto grudges can shatter relationships, while forgiveness offers healing and restoration. It’s important we understand that forgiveness is not just about letting go of resentment but also about paving the way for love and peace within our hearts and among our relationships.
Matthew 6:14
“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” – Matthew 6:14
Colossians 3:13
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” – Colossians 3:13
Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32
Mark 11:25
“And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.” – Mark 11:25
Luke 17:3
“So watch yourselves. If your brother or sister sins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them.” – Luke 17:3
Love is Unconditional
Unconditional love reflects the love that God has for us, a love that does not waver based on our actions or choices. This type of love is powerful and transformative, reaching beyond our flaws and imperfections. It teaches us to accept others as they are, providing a safe space for them to grow and flourish. By modeling this in our lives, we can build stronger relationships based on trust, acceptance, and the deep understanding that we are all imperfect beings deserving of love.
Romans 5:8
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8
1 John 4:19
“We love because he first loved us.” – 1 John 4:19
Ephesians 3:18-19
“May be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.” – Ephesians 3:18-19
John 13:34
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” – John 13:34
1 Corinthians 13:7
“It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” – 1 Corinthians 13:7
Love is Patient
Patience is a vital virtue tied closely to love. We all experience times of delay or difficulty, and in those moments, our genuine love is tested. An attitude of patience allows us to extend grace during hardships, knowing that true growth often requires time. Love nurtures us as we learn to wait and hope for the best in ourselves and those we love, cultivating a fruitful relationship that flourishes over time through understanding and compassion.
1 Corinthians 13:4
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.” – 1 Corinthians 13:4
Colossians 3:12
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” – Colossians 3:12
James 1:19
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” – James 1:19
2 Timothy 2:24
“And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful.” – 2 Timothy 2:24
Romans 12:12
“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” – Romans 12:12
Love is a Commandment
As we reflect on how love should be, we recognize that love isn’t merely a suggestion it’s a commandment we are called to uphold. Jesus emphasized this throughout his ministry, encouraging us to love not just in words, but in deeds through our actions towards others. This calling invites us to engage in acts of love daily, reminding us of our responsibilities toward each other within our communities. By following this commandment, we create a ripple effect of love that touches the lives of many.
Matthew 22:37-39
“Jesus replied: ’Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” – Matthew 22:37-39
John 15:12
“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” – John 15:12
1 John 4:21
“And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.” – 1 John 4:21
1 John 3:23
“And this is his command: to believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, and to love one another as he commanded us.” – 1 John 3:23
Romans 13:8
“Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law.” – Romans 13:8
Final Thoughts
Reflecting on how love should be, we are reminded that love is multifaceted. It embodies selflessness, kindness, forgiveness, and patience. When we embrace unconditional love, we align ourselves with God’s design for relationships. Love isn’t just an emotion; it’s an action, a commandment, and a way of life we are called to express every day.
As we interact with those around us, let’s commit to being patient and forgiving, allowing our actions to reflect the deepest forms of love. By living these truths, we can create supportive communities that thrive on the love of Christ. Together, let’s foster an atmosphere where love knows no bounds and flourishes in everything we do.
If you want to learn more about engaging in love, consider reading other topics that emphasize the importance of love, such as Romans 12:9-18 and Mark 12:29-31. Each teaches us the profound impact of love in our daily lives.