And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love. –1 Corinthians 13:13 NIV
First Corinthians 13 is always referred to as the love chapter. It is sandwiched between twelve and fourteen, which are talking about spiritual gifts. We’re told that without love, all of our words, works, and giving are useless. We’re given a description of what love is. Love is patient and kind; it does not boast or envy. It’s not self-seeking, isn’t easily angered, and it keeps no record of wrongs. It rejoices in the truth. It always protects, hopes, and perseveres. Love never fails. In verse thirteen, the last verse, we’re told that these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest is love. Why? Because in Heaven, we won’t need faith; we’ll see God face to face. We won’t need hope. Who hopes for what he already has? Love is the only thing we’ll take into Heaven; it’s the only thing that will remain. God is love, and we are to walk in His likeness.
Father, teach me to walk in Your footsteps. Teach me to love as You love. Remind me what the greatest gift of all truly is.
Holy Spirit, fill me with Your love and reveal Your love through me to all those I encounter today.