Love is...(Part 9)

Love does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth, 1 Cor. 13:6

In 1 Corinthians 13:6, the essence of Christian love is captured through the contrasting Greek terms for rejoicing—χαίρει (chairei). Love does not find joy in unrighteousnes ἀδικίᾳ (adikia)s. Instead, it rejoices in the truth ἀληθείᾳ (alētheia). This distinction highlights that love, as defined by God, is discerning and active.

When we speak the truth in love, we are not merely communicating facts but are conveying the reality of God. This spiritual reality stands against lies, illusions, denial, and injustices, which distort God’s nature. Often, driven by our fleshly desires to maintain peace or please others, we might agree with falsehoods or deny the truth, especially when confronting those we care about. However, love calls us to be truthful. Love is not blind; it is a discerning agent that aligns with truth and justice.

By speaking and advocating for truth, we reflect God's love. Love's rejoicing in the truth is a celebration of this spiritual reality. To love authentically and truthfully, we must reject falsehoods, lies, and evil, not from a place of judgment, but from a place of alignment with God’s truth.

Reflection Question:

Consider specific areas in your life where you might be compromising on the truth for comfort or approval.

Prayer:

Abba Father, we come before You to renounce falsehood, denial, and illusion in our lives. Help us to embrace Your truth, which sets us free and aligns us with Your will. Grant us the wisdom to discern and reject what distorts Your image and the strength to uphold Your truth in love. As we face the challenges of life, let us be steadfast in speaking and rejoicing in the truth that You have revealed to us through Your Word. In Jesus’ name, Amen.