This Is What Love Really Means (And Most People Miss It)
Most people think they understand love—but what if we’ve misunderstood it all along? Discover the radical, self-giving love Jesus modeled and why it changes everything about how we treat others. If you’ve ever struggled to love difficult people, this message is for you.
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People can be difficult. Let’s be honest—they can be difficult to love. And yet, love is exactly what Jesus calls us to.
What is love? Is it a person, a feeling, or something we do? Can it be measured, or is it something we simply experience? Despite all the sermons, podcasts, songs, and movies, we often miss the mark.
Jesus makes it clear in John 13:34–35:
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
Love is more than an emotion. It’s a command—and therefore a choice. You don’t fall into love like a ditch. You choose it. Scripture shows us love is intentional, sacrificial, and entirely selfless.
“For God so loved the world that He GAVE…” —John 3:16
“In humility, VALUE others above yourselves…” —Philippians 2:3–4
“The Son of Man came not to be served, but to SERVE…” —Matthew 20:28
Love serves. Love gives. Love sacrifices.
Love—when defined in its purest form—is selflessness.
Take Gerald, for example. He did a lot for his mom growing up. But as he matured, he realized much of it came from selfish motives—trying to be praised or seen. How often we do the same! But true love isn’t motivated by what others might think or give in return. It’s not love with strings attached. It’s love without conditions. This should be the driving motivation of our heart. Even if no one sees and no one knows–God does. He looks at the heart.
God sees beyond actions—He sees the heart.
“Love your neighbor as yourself.” —Galatians 5:14
“Love is patient, love is kind… it keeps no record of wrongs.” —1 Corinthians 13:4–7
Real love doesn’t keep score. It doesn’t quit. It doesn’t wait for people to deserve it. It gives without debt, serves without applause, and sacrifices without resentment. That’s the way Jesus loves us—and it’s the way we’re called to love others.