The Practice of Love. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 The Prerogatives and virtue of love are evident when we love our brethren. This is much more important than religious deeds. One of the greatest things a man can do for his heavenly Father is to be kind to the Father's children. v.4. Love is not hasty but patient with the failures of others and does not call attention to itself. Love is victorious over resentment. Love is not inconsiderate but benevolent: victory over selfishness. Love is not envious but content: victory over envy. Love is not boastful but unostentatious (unassuming): victory over being a "show off." Love is not arrogant but humble: "You first; I follow." Love can be wronged and yet maintain a kindly spirit. Love does not advertise itself because humility is its character. Love is not proud of what it does or what it produces that lasts.
v.5. Love does not behave itself foolishly because it wants the best for others. Love does not embarrass other people, nor does it promote itself and get provoked by insults that may come from others. Love is always slow to anger because it always thinks the best. Love is not rude but courteous. Politeness is a Christian virtue. Love is not selfish but self-forgetful, wanting the good of others. Love is not irritable but is good-tempered. Generally, self-centered people are touchy and easily exasperated. Love is not vindictive but generous. Love keeps a diary of good and keeps no bad record.
v.6. Love isn't happy with others' mistakes but rejoices in God's purposes. Love does not find any joy when sin causes another person to fall. It does get great joy when truth prevails and is fruitful in the hearts and lives of those who believe in the truth. Love is not malevolent but high-principled. Does not make gain out of others' faults. Does not delight in exposing others' weaknesses. Love is not rebellious but brave. It is not glad when others go wrong. Does not talk about it. Love suffers wrong without retaliating.
v.7. Love is not suspicious but confident; takes the high view. Love puts up with all kinds of problems nor does it assume that others deserve what we think is coming to them. Love never gives up hope in other people and especially hopes that sinners will “turn to God from idols, to serve the living and true God.” Love is not despondent but is undiscourageable. Love hopes for better things in the future and doesn't despair of everybody. Love is not conquerable but is indomitable.