Session 19

The difference between love and lust

From 2 Samuel: A 5-Week Devotional

Today, love is a very misconstrued word. We throw the word love around so much the true meaning has been watered down. Love has become more of a contract instead of a covenant. Our love is based on feelings. Our love is conditional. Because of that, our love fades and fails.

In 2 Samuel 13, Amnon thought he knew what love was, but he was really in lust. Love is patient, lust requires immediate satisfaction. Love is kind, lust is harsh. Love does not demand its own way, lust does. A good rule of thumb is this: If you just can’t wait, what you feel is not true love.

If you just can’t wait, what you feel is not true love.

1 Corinthians 13:4-8 gives the definition of true love: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.”

This is not just a Hallmark card phrase that is quoted at pretty much every wedding in the world, but this is a way of life.

When we love like that, we give without any expectations. When we love like that, we forgive without an apology. When we love like that, we lift others up instead of tearing them down. When we love like that, we always assume the best in everyone. 

Reflect:

• When was the last time you experienced true love? When was the last time you showed someone love? 
• Take a minute to examine if you are living a life of lust or of love. 
• What is one thing you need to start doing or stop doing to love well?