Valentine's Day Message · February 14, 2025

The Cost of True Love

By Bishop Samson Amajene

Today's Thoughts — Valentine's Day Message

Friday, February 14, 2025 · By Bishop Samson Amajene

Text: Song of Solomon 8:7; 1 Corinthians 13:1–5

Topic: The Cost of True Love

Love is the ultimate principle in God's Kingdom. Everything is intricately woven together by love — without it, nothing can truly exist. The fact that our Creator is called Love signifies that the foundation of all relationships and interactions revolves around and is connected through love (1 John 4:7–8).

True love finds its fullest expression in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ (John 3:16; 15:13). It is essential to understand that one cannot truly love in God's way without fully accepting Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior. Whenever you witness love genuinely manifested, know that it originates from the Lord (Romans 5:5).

Consider the parable of the Good Samaritan, who cared for a man robbed and injured by bandits on the Jericho road, while the Priest, Levite, and Pharisee walked by, leaving him half dead (Luke 10:30–36). This act of love exemplifies how powerful and transformative true love can be.

Why, then, is there so much disorder in the world today? It is primarily due to a lack of true love. Imagine how wonderful our world would be if true love prevailed! The absence of true love leads to hatred, murder, theft, gossip, lies, and fornication — bringing darkness amid the beauty God originally created (James 3:14–16).

In various families, churches, and communities, true love is often scarce. Greed, jealousy, bitterness, anger, hatred, and selfishness have bewilderingly become the norm, causing authentic love to evaporate.

Beloved brethren, as we celebrate St. Valentine's Day, let us allow love to guide our hearts in all we do — whether in word or action.

The Four Major Types of Love

1. Eros Love — Song of Solomon 1:14–17

In today's society, the word "love" is frequently misinterpreted, often associated solely with eros, or erotic love. However, it is entirely possible to express genuine love for someone without any sexual attachment. Saying "I love you" to someone should be an authentic expression of Agape love — a heartfelt sentiment without ulterior motives (John 13:34–35; 1 John 4:7–8).

Eros is often characterized by fleeting pleasures and desires — addicting and focused more on personal gratification than the well-being of the other person. Consequently, many hearts are shattered on Valentine's Day due to the unfulfillment of expectations surrounding eros.

2. Philia Love — Hebrews 13:1

Philia love exists between friends — such as couples who have been together for an extended period and understand each other deeply. Also known as "brotherly love," Philia is based on mutuality. However, as children of God, we are called to love others unconditionally, regardless of whether that love is reciprocated. Our true reward comes from God, not man (Ephesians 6:6–8).

3. Storge Love — Genesis 21:14–19

Storge love represents the natural bond that exists between parents and their children. This love is enduring and typically does not fade, even in the face of challenging behaviors. Parents often overlook faults and continue to love their children unconditionally.

4. Agape Love — John 13:34–35; 1 John 4:7–8, 13

Agape love is the highest form of love — there is no greater love. It is the Christ-like love implanted in our hearts when we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and personal Savior. When Agape love is alive in our hearts, we are empowered to love others unconditionally, irrespective of whether they "deserve" our love — mirroring the way God loves us.

Agape love allows us to forgive those who offend us and move on, positively impacting our mental and physical health. Where Agape love flourishes, we experience fewer visits to the doctor, a deeper sense of belonging, reduced pain, uplifting emotions, and enhanced resilience in challenging times.

May we allow the essence of true love to transform us and our communities, creating a world where love reigns supreme.

"Lord, fill my heart with Your Agape love — a love that forgives freely, gives generously, and reflects Your character to everyone I meet. Let true love reign in my home, my church, and my community. In Jesus' name. Amen."

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