1 Corinthians 13:4-5
4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, 5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;
King James Version
4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.
New International Version
Love
In 1 Corinthians 13, the Apostle Paul eloquently describes the nature and character of agape love – the highest form of love which reflects God’s unconditional love. In verses 4-5, he details what true, Christ-like love looks, sounds, and acts like in practical terms.
Paul states that love is patient, meaning it endures even in the face of adversity and offenses without retaliating. Love is kind, constantly seeking to treat others with tenderness, compassion and sincerity.
Love does not envy, which is freedom from jealousy over the blessings, gifts or successes of others. Love does not boast, as it is humble rather than focused on promoting oneself. Love is not proud, for it does not prioritize self-honor but rather elevates others.
The passage goes on to say love does not dishonor others, as it seeks to protect the dignity and reputation of others rather than tear them down. Love is not self-seeking, or constantly concerned with pursuing one’s own interests and agendas.
Love is not easily angered, demonstrating restraint and patience even when wronged. Finally, love keeps no record of wrongs, meaning it does not harbor grudges but rather forgives offenses and gives others a fresh start.
In summary, 1 Corinthians 13:4-5 paints a beautiful portrait of agape love as patient, kind, humble, protective, forgiving, and selfless. This description provides helpful traits for believers to emulate as they seek to love others with the love of Christ.
