If I Have Not Love…

If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a ringing gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have absolute faith so as to move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and exult in the surrender of my body, but have not love, I gain nothing.
– 1 Corinthians 13:1-3


These words, so often quoted at weddings, were originally written to correct a divided and prideful church. The Corinthians were boasting in their spiritual gifts, their eloquence, their knowledge. But Paul cuts straight to the heart: none of it matters if it isn’t rooted in love.

This is a sobering truth. We can be brilliant, articulate, theologically precise—even sacrificial—and still be empty without love. Love is not just a virtue among many. It is the lifeblood of the Christian life. Without it, our words become noise, our efforts meaningless, and our witness dim.

As you consider your relationships with other followers of Jesus, especially those who differ from you in belief or emphasis, ask yourself: Are your convictions delivered with love? Is your desire to be right stronger than your desire to love? Jesus did not say the world would know us by our theology, our activism, or our sacrifice. He said they would know us by our love.


Questions

1. In what areas of your life might love be lacking, even if your intentions are good?

2. Have you ever pursued being “right” at the expense of being loving?

3. How can you ensure that love is the foundation of your interactions with fellow believers?


Suggested Activity

Take time today to examine your motivations. Choose one recent conversation or interaction with a fellow Christian and reflect: Was it filled with love? If not, consider reaching out to that person with a spirit of humility and reconciliation—or commit to approaching future conversations with a renewed heart of love.


Prayer

Lord God, 

Remind me today that love is not optional. Without it, even my best efforts fall short. Forgive me for the times I’ve chosen pride, argument, or performance over love. Let my words be shaped by kindness, my actions rooted in grace, and my heart softened by Your Spirit. Teach me again and again that love is the most excellent way.

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

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