1 Corinthians 13:13
And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love. — 1 Corinthians 13:13 (NIV)
The Lasting Power of Love
This verse stands as the beautiful conclusion to Paul’s famous “Love Chapter.” It reminds us that while faith and hope are vital to our walk with God, love holds the highest place. Love reflects the very nature of God. Scripture tells us plainly:
God is love. — 1 John 4:8
Faith and hope guide our journey, but love defines who we are in Christ. Faith believes. Hope endures. But love acts—it reaches beyond words and changes lives.
Understanding Faith, Hope, and Love
Paul’s three virtues are often called the foundation of Christian living. They build upon one another yet differ in focus and purpose.
| Virtue | Description | Bible Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Faith | Trust in God and His promises, even when unseen | Hebrews 11:1 |
| Hope | Confident expectation in God’s eternal plan | Romans 15:13 |
| Love | Selfless action reflecting God’s character | 1 John 3:18 |
Faith anchors us. Hope lifts us. Love completes us.
Why Love Is the Greatest
Love is eternal. Faith and hope are necessary in this life, but love continues forever. When we stand before God one day, faith will become sight, and hope will be fulfilled. Yet love—God’s love—will remain.
Love never fails. — 1 Corinthians 13:8
Love is also the fulfillment of God’s law. Jesus summed up all commandments with two simple ones: love God and love your neighbor.
Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind… and love your neighbor as yourself. — Matthew 22:37–39
Living Out Love Daily
Love is not just a feeling; it’s a daily choice. It means forgiving when hurt, showing kindness when wronged, and helping others without expecting anything in return. True love mirrors Christ’s sacrifice on the cross.
Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. — John 15:13
In our homes, communities, and workplaces, this kind of love can transform relationships and bring light into darkness.
Faith in Action
Paul’s message invites us to live in balance—rooted in faith, hopeful for eternity, and active in love. When faith inspires hope and love fuels our actions, our lives reflect the gospel’s heart.
Let all that you do be done in love. — 1 Corinthians 16:14
Love unites. Love heals. Love lasts.
