LOVE — The Foundation of the Kingdom
Just as faith must be confessed for it to grow, so also love must be continually expressed. The more you speak, practice, and live in love, the more it matures within you. The love of Christ must not remain static in your life — it must grow until you are perfected in it.
In the Kingdom of God, love is the foundation upon which everything is built. The Apostle Paul reminds us that “now abide faith, hope, and love — these three; but the greatest of these is love” (1 Corinthians 13:13). Love is the only virtue that will outlast time, trials, and even spiritual gifts.
God has given many of His servants different areas to emphasize: prayer, faith, holiness, wisdom, prosperity, and more. Yet, no matter the subject, love is the root and anchor of them all. Anything done outside of love is ultimately empty (1 Corinthians 13:1–3).
- Your love for God will compel you to walk in holiness (John 14:15).
- Your love for God will draw you to a life of prayer (Psalm 116:1–2).
- Your love for God will produce unwavering trust in Him (Galatians 5:6).
When you truly walk in love, no spiritual force can prevail against you. For the enemy to touch you, he would have to bypass the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit — and that is impossible for those abiding in divine love (John 14:23).
Love Tested
True love is not proven in times of ease, but under pressure. Just as faith is tested by fire (1 Peter 1:7), love too will be tried. You may be betrayed, misunderstood, or spoken against — but in that moment, fall to your knees and intercede for those who hurt you (Matthew 5:44).
When you are surrendered to the love of Christ, words can no longer wound you. Love acts as a shield, protecting the heart (Romans 5:5). Our Lord Jesus “was oppressed and afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth” (Isaiah 53:7).
Receive the grace to keep silent when falsely accused. Resist the urge to defend yourself in the flesh. Every time you step outside of love, you open the door for the enemy to enter.
Guarding Against Offense
Jesus warned, “Offenses will certainly come, but woe to the one through whom they come” (Luke 17:1). Offense is a subtle snare — it roots itself in unforgiveness and bitterness, both of which poison the soul.
John the Baptist, though a mighty prophet, became offended in Christ and it ultimately cost him his life (Matthew 11:1–6). Learn from this: offense is costly, but forgiveness is freeing.
Whether or not someone asks for forgiveness, choose to release them. Forgiveness is not for their sake alone — it is for your own spiritual safety and intimacy with God.
The Safest Way to Live
To walk in love toward all people is the safest way to live.
- Do not allow yourself to be offended.
- Do not be the cause of offense.
Choose love over offense, and you will walk in the security of God’s presence.
“Above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection” (Colossians 3:14).
