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True Worth Through Love: More Than Success or Status

Ever felt like something’s missing, no matter how much you achieve? That’s because true worth is found in love, not in titles or possessions.

Love is the single quality that gives our lives meaning. It’s not our talents, intelligence, accomplishments, or education that defines us. Without love, all else is just noise—empty and insignificant.

The Importance of Love in Scripture

1 Corinthians 13:1-3 speaks powerfully about the role of love:

“If I speak with the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or clanging cymbal.

If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.

If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.”

These verses remind us that no achievement, no matter how impressive, holds true value without love. Every act of kindness or faith is hollow if not driven by love.

Actions Rooted in Love

Furthermore, the Bible emphasizes that genuine love is at the heart of every meaningful action. In 1 John 4:20, it challenges us:

“If someone says, ‘I love God,’ and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen?”

1 John 4:7-8 goes further:

“Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and everyone that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.

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

So, let’s pause and ask ourselves: how are we showing love in our lives?

Reflecting on Our Relationships

Now, consider the people in your life. How are you showing love to them?

• Do you truly love your spouse?
• Are you showing compassion to your siblings?
• How do you demonstrate love to your parents, your children, or your friends?

Our relationships are the canvas where God’s love should shine. In fact, through our words and actions, we reveal the depth of our love for God by how we treat others. So, are we showing them warmth or withholding affection, waiting for some ideal “right time” to let our love show?

Love in Action: A Guiding Light

However, love isn’t just about feelings; it’s about showing up, day after day, with patience, kindness, and understanding. Here are a few ways to let love lead:

• Practice Patience and Kindness: Take time to be patient and gentle. Small acts of kindness have an enormous impact.
• Show Compassion: Be open-hearted and understanding toward others. Compassion can bridge gaps and heal wounds.
• Forgive Freely: Let go of grudges. Forgiveness reflects the love God has shown us, and it frees us from bitterness.
• Encourage and Support: Offer genuine words of encouragement. Let your presence be a source of strength for those around you.
• Act Selflessly: Put others first. Selflessness mirrors God’s love and builds connections that last.

The True Worth of Love

Without love, our achievements and possessions are meaningless. Therefore, love alone provides the foundation for a life of purpose and peace. As the Bible teaches, the value of our lives isn’t measured by wealth or fame but by how deeply we love. We may say we love God, but if we aren’t actively loving others, are we truly honoring Him?

Love Now, Not Later

If we wait for the “perfect” moment to show love, we risk missing the chance to let others know how much they mean to us. In fact, today is the time to begin living a life of love. Let’s embrace love now—before regret overshadows our opportunity.

A Living Example: City Blessing Church

My journey with love took an unexpected turn around 1984 when I visited a church in Fresno, California, called the Indonesian Full Gospel Fellowship (IFGF). At first, I was merely a visitor. The church spoke mostly Indonesian, and they practiced charismatic worship, including speaking in tongues. I didn’t plan to stay.

But something about the warmth and depth of their love drew me in. They sang songs of praise, prayed earnestly, and shared openly. Their love for God and for others went beyond words. Slowly, their genuine love captivated me.

Chris, one of the church leaders, invited me to a Bible study. I came prepared with verses to debate against speaking in tongues. But Chris gently turned those very scriptures around on me, shifting my perspective. My “visit” soon became a 40-year journey, and to this day, my heart remains deeply tied to that church.

Pastor Paulus Kristanto often spent hours praying and singing with me. Chris even became a roommate, balancing a near-perfect GPA while serving others. His dedication inspired me to see love in action. Today, IFGF has grown from a handful of churches to thousands worldwide. It’s a testament to the power of love and commitment to spreading God’s message.

Closing Thoughts: Let Love Define Us

Finally, love holds the power to transform. It builds bridges, heals wounds, and gives our lives purpose. The love shown to me by a small Indonesian congregation all those years ago left a lasting mark, proving that love—real, selfless, God-centered love—has the power to change lives.

So, love your family, your friends, and even those you find difficult. Share love without reservation, knowing that in love lies our true worth. Love is both necessary and sufficient for a fulfilling life.

When we live from a place of love, we reveal God’s heart to the world. Love is what gives us purpose. It’s what makes us whole. Today, let’s choose love—consistently, courageously, and with open hearts.