LOVE

When we use the word “love” in English, we use it for everything from our favorite food to our spouse. However, the Bible was originally written in a language that had different words to describe the different ways we love one another. Understanding these can help us understand how God loves us and how we are called to love others.

There are four types of love:

Eros, which is a romantic love. It is the emotional and physical attraction between a husband and a wife.

Storge, which is a familial love. It is the natural affection between parents and their children or among family members.

Philia, which is a brotherly love and friendship. It is the deep affection and bond between close friends and fellow believers.

Agape, which is the highest form of love. It is God’s unconditional love. Unlike the other types of love, Agape is a chosen action. It is a selfless, sacrificial gift that describes God’s very nature. 

To love with Agape love means to be sacrificial. It is when we truly think of the good of others before ourselves. Imagine what a wonderful world it would be if we all followed the Word of God and loved one another with this kind of heart! Just as God is love, He calls us to reflect that same love back into the world.

As believers, we are called to follow God’s example of love. When we stop focusing only on ourselves and start loving others the way Christ loves us, it brings a great peace to both our minds and our hearts. Let us pray for the strength to love selflessly, knowing God’s love for us never fails. Amen!

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John 3:16

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son…

1 John 4:8

He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.

John 11:36

Then said the Jews, “Behold how He [Jesus] loved him!”

Romans 12:10

Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love…