Author: Joyce C. Lock


Some form of the word ‘love’ exists in scripture 543 times and
is, conceivably, one of the most abused, excused, and misused
words in modern lingo, today.

I love your style. I just loved that show. I love the way you
fix your hair! I love ice cream. Oh, I love what you've done
with this room! I love you in that dress. I love it when you
make me laugh.

I LOVE YOU ... unless I get hurt ... just don't ask me to help
... only when my needs come first ... though not if it means
listening to you ... barring when I can take credit ... when
it's convenient ... if you love me ... as long as you do what I
say ... but not your children ... unless you get in my way ...
until I think of some good jokes at your expense ... except you
put on a few pounds ... omitting when friends are around ...
whenever it benefits me.

Let's make love. If you love me, you'll do it. Never mind that
I'm sleeping with someone else, it's you I love. You're just
stupid - you know I love you.

I love you, but I won't forgive you. I'm sorry for hurting you,
again, but you know I love you. I told you once that I love you,
that ought to be enough. What do I have to say to make you
believe me ... I (bleep, bleep) love you, all right? If I say I
love you, then I love you. I can see others and still love you.
When you measure up to my expectations, then I'll love you.

Some speak most eloquent words of love. Fewer show it in their
lives. But, whatever they speak, actions speak even louder.

Surely, God must prefer to disassociate from situations where
people misuse words that describe His character. And, wherever
He isn't, it isn't love.

It is impossible to love until we (know God and) begin to love
others as He loves us, because God is love and it's His Spirit
that loves through us (1 John 4:8, 12b-13). Anything less is
counterfeit.

© by Joyce C. Lock
http://my.homewithgod.com/blessingsandlessons/ This writing may
be used in its entirety, with credits in tact, for non-profit
ministering purposes.