How We Show Love by Exploring Biblical Teachings and Love Languages

Exploring the five love languages from a biblical perspective reminds us that love is expressed in different ways depending on the person and situation. From words of affirmation to physical touch, our faith challenges us to show love not only in ways we prefer, but in ways that truly speak to others.

This past week, we had a good discussion about how we show Love to each other as Christians. Love is one of the most used words in the Bible, showing up roughly over 500 times in different forms. When asked about the greatest commandment, Jesus answered:

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and will all your soul, and with all your mind and all your strength.  The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself.  There is no greater commandment greater than these"  Mark 12:30-31

In relationships, we talked about how loving others is often different for each person and situation. Have you guys ever read Gary Chapman's book The Five Love Languages? It caused us to do some research and reflection. With the following, not listed in any order, we took each love language and applied some biblical teachings.

1) Words of Affirmation: We all know how much words of encouragement or affirmation matter when people share them with us. We are confident that Jesus was often that encourager with his disciples, Showing them Love and comforting them not to be troubled or afraid.

"Peace I leave with you; my Peace I give you.  I do not give to you as the world gives.  Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not be afraid."  John 14:27

How are we doing on sharing words of affirmation? Are we letting those we love know? Are we writing those notes and texts, making that phone call, or simply verbally telling them each day how much we love them?

2) Quality Time: When we think about quality time, our minds go to Jesus and his time with Mary and Martha. This is a great example of the love languages in action.  If you guys recall, Jesus visited the home of Mary and Martha.  Martha hurried around to ensure preparations were ready for Jesus while Mary sat at Jesus' feet. At one point in the story, Jesus says to Martha:

"Martha, Martha, the Lord answered, you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed, indeed, only one.  Mary has chosen what is better, which will not be taken away from her. Luke 10:41

We loved this example because, in this case, Martha likely believed she was showing Jesus love through acts of service, and possibly that is high on her love language list.  However, Jesus knew the importance of that time.   When we think about our day, are we taking time for those we love???  In this world of distraction, let's take a note from Jesus and slow down and appreciate quality time!

3) Acts of Service: Great follow-up to Point No. 2!  Yes, acts of service are important to show Love.  Think about it: what is the greatest act of service ever displayed on earth?  Yep, the day Jesus went to the cross and died for us, he demonstrated his Love for us through an incredible act of service!

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16

How are we showing Love to others through acts of service? Are we going the extra mile, showing up when loved ones need us, sacrificing our selfish desires to care for the needs of someone we love?

4) Gifts: The greatest gift we have all received is salvation through Christ's death on the cross. We were also reminded of the gift of the Holy Spirit.

"Again, Jesus said, "Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.  And with that, he breathed on them and said, Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone's sins, their sins are forgiven" John 20:21-23

What opportunities do we have to show Love through our earthly treasure? Are we taking the time to share gifts of Love and appreciation with those close to us?  Remember the look on that child's face when they opened that Christmas present We all enjoy receiving gifts!

5) Physical Touch: When we think about Jesus, we immediately reflect on the healing that he did during his time through physical touch. 

"Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man.  I am willing, he said.  Be clean!  Immediately, he was cleansed from his leprosy."  Matthew 8:3

We aren't going around healing people from leprosy!  But think about loved ones in your life. When was the last time you gave them a meaningful hug? Maybe put your arms on their shoulder, letting them know you are there for them? Or, for us married men, are we showing Love to our wives through meaningful physical touch without other intentions? 😊

As we go about our week, think about it: God instructed us to love Him and, most importantly, to love others. Remember, it's not always about loving others how we want to be loved; it's about how they want to be loved.