To build a house you need bricks or wood. What do you need for true love? Paul mentions three ingredients: a pure heart, a clear conscience and a sincere faith. Let's take a closer look at these.
The purpose of your assignment is The love that comes from a pure heart,
1 Tim. 1:5
A clear conscience and a sincere faith.
Ingredient 1: A pure heart
The heart is the center of being human. The place where all emotions and intentions come from. True love can only grow from a "pure" heart. A pure heart means pure motives. No hidden agenda. No manipulation.
Is my love pure, is my intention to help the other person? Or am I using my love as a means of exchange? Like: if I help you now, you should help me sometime later when I need something. That is not pure love. Love is not a medium of exchange. True love does not expect anything in return.
We must love one another without ulterior motives. That also means being able to forgive, be patient, and be faithful - even when the other person doesn't actually "deserve it."
Besides, if we are outwardly loving or manipulative, another person usually feels it unerringly. But they usually won't say so directly because they are too polite to do so. That's not neat. But you notice it naturally. That other person will seek less contact with you. Hypocritical or manipulative love does not connect, but rather brings separation. A pure heart with pure love attracts others and builds lasting relationships.
Pray each day, "Lord, cleanse my heart so that I love honestly and truly and others see and feel my love."
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