Love Deeply
April 24
Love … always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
1 Corinthians 13:7
Adrian and Jennifer devised a unique wedding gift for their young friends.
Instead of something traditional, they decided to pass along one of their favor-
ite books. Hidden within its pages were three restaurant gift certificates and
a handwritten note encouraging them to love deeply. The book, written by a
Christian author, gave practical ways in which to enrich our relationships and
fend off complacency in marriage.
There was a catch though; this couple might not read the book immedi-
ately and may not find the certificates for years. In truth, that was exactly how
they envisioned their plan working out. Hopefully, when in times of struggle,
they would remember the book, pull it off the shelf to gain some inspiration,
and there find wisdom, the note, and the gift certificates.
In the note was a simple message: “When it feels like love is ebbing, press
on! Remember the hope you shared in courtship. Use one of the gift certificates
today. Learn to listen to each other; never give in; always persevere, dare to love
deeply!”
Thirty years of marriage had provided Adrian and Jennifer with a measure
of wisdom.
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God has provided this same wedding gift for us, His bride. Not that we would
only open His Word in times of trouble, but that especially during those times
we would press on and seek to find the wisdom He has buried deep within the
pages of Scripture.
Wisdom comes through experience. Seldom do we learn lessons by hear-
ing about them. Most of the time, events must first happen to us before they
have any meaning in our lives. In those times, we can benefit from the experi-
ence of others, but only if we ask for help. God loves us so deeply that He has
hidden timeless and pertinent treasures in His Word. Just for us, just for now.
Prayer
“In those times when we need a boost, Lord, lead us to
the correct passage in Your Word. And please send us a
messenger of love who has been where we are now. Give
us courage to love deeply. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”
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