The scriptures reveal that love is the most powerful force
in shaping our lives and destiny.
God created man as a relational being, i.e., we are created
to relate. Relationship is an integral part of our lives. This includes our
relationship with God and man. Relationship is therefore both vertical and
horizontal.
• Relationship with God: Genesis 3:8 And they
heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day...
• Relationship with man: Genesis 2:18...the
Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an
help meet for him.
Therefore, we relate with both God and with man
God also created us to be unique. i.e., we are different
from one another. It is important for us to know that God loves variety; He
promotes unity over uniformity. Psalm 133:1 "Behold, how good and how pleasant
it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!"
If this is the case, then how do we relate without conflict?
The answer is love. When we walk in love, we relate with each other with ease.
Even when conflict arises love enables us to get through and build strong
relationships.
Prov 10:12 "Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all
sins."
Prov 17: 9 "He that covereth a transgression seeketh love;
but he that repeateth a matter separateth very friends."
Love can, therefore, be said to be “the lubricant that enables us to relate with each other with ease.”
What then is love?
Love can be understood in three distinct contexts, each
representing a different shade of love. To illustrate this concept, consider
the various shades of red: red, crimson, and pink. While all are shades of red,
each one has a unique hue. Similarly, love manifests in different forms, each
with its own characteristics.
• Agape: This is the highest and purest form
of love, often referred to as the "Godkind" of love, embodies
unconditional, selfless love and is derived from the Greek word
"AGAPE."
• Phileo: This represents friendship love,
characterised by deep camaraderie and mutual respect. The Greek word
"PHILEO" captures this essence.
• Eros: This is romantic love, encompassing
passion and desire. The Greek term "EROS" defines this type of love.
Each form of love has distinct characteristics that reflect
its unique shade, contributing to the rich and varied experience of love in
human relationships.
We shall discuss this in detail tomorrow.
CALL TO ACTION:
❖ Reflect
today on what love is to you.
❖ Pray
and ask God to put love in your heart for Him and others.