Love: The Motive and Measure of Our Faith

“The foundation of our faith is built on love, and it should be the driving force behind all our actions, talents, and gifts.”

“Love is the motive and measure of our faith,”. It’s not enough to possess remarkable talents or spiritual gifts; without love, these abilities are hollow. When we prioritize love as our motive, our actions become genuine expressions of selflessness. We find that our faith isn’t merely a set of beliefs but a transformative force that compels us to act in kindness, compassion, and generosity.

True spiritual growth isn’t measured by how much knowledge we accumulate or the magnitude of our achievements, but by the depth and authenticity of our love for others. It’s a reminder that if we aren’t guided by love, we may inadvertently choose the wrong standards for our faith. In embracing love as both our motive and measure, we align ourselves with a timeless truth that echoes through 1 Corinthians 13:13—love is eternal, enduring beyond any gift or talent we may possess. Let love be our unwavering standard for faith.

Questions:

• What is so different about Christian love “agape” love, than other types of love?
• What is the greatest example of “agape” love you’ve ever witnessed? (examples: Mother Teresa, your mother)
• In what ways can you see God exemplifying this type of love to humanity? How about you? 
• In what ways can this type of love change the world? 
• Can you say that love is your greatest Christian pursuit, or has it been other things? How could you adjust this focus?

Challenge:

• Identify a specific talent or gift you possess.
• Consider how you can use that talent or gift to bless or serve someone else without expecting anything in return.
• Share your experiences and reflections on prioritizing love in action during the next group meeting.