Secrets of a Lasting Love

In one paragraph

The message this Sunday looked at what makes love last, working from 1 Corinthians 13:7. The pastor used research on what people consider a good life as a jumping-off point, then walked through four qualities that keep love from giving out over time. John Stossel's research came up in the Wednesday morning men's study, and the pastor brought it into the Sunday message. Stossel found that a good...

Read together

1. 1 Corinthians 13:13 cited as containing close friends, good marriage, control over lives, and vibrant religious faith as elements of a good life
2. 1 Corinthians 13:7 read aloud together as the main text on secrets of a lasting love
3. Isaiah 54 quoted to describe God's everlasting love and compassion
4. John 15:12 quoted as Jesus commanding us to love each other as He loved us
5. Romans 8:38-39 read aloud together to show nothing can separate us from the love of God
6. Romans 3:10 quoted to show there is no one who always does what is right
7. 1 John 1:8 quoted to show that claiming to have no sin is self-deception
8. Ephesians 4:2 read aloud together on being humble, gentle, and patient bearing one another in love
9. Isaiah 55:8 quoted to show God's thoughts and ways are higher than ours, giving reason to trust Him

Talk about it

1. Pastor shared research from John Stossel that found wealth, beauty, thrilling experiences, and personal achievement are not what people consider a good life. What was your reaction to that list, and do you agree with what the research found people actually need?
2. Pastor said that lasting love extends grace, and used the image of a roof to describe how love covers and protects. Who in your life right now do you find it hardest to extend that kind of grace to, and what makes it difficult?
3. The quiz from Dr. Roder found that trusting people are less gullible, have higher IQs, and live happier lives. Has there been a time when choosing to trust someone, or giving someone a second chance, changed the outcome of a relationship for you?
4. Pastor said that what kills love is not hate but neglect, and read a poem about not waiting until tomorrow to show love. What is one practical thing you could do this week to show love to someone before the moment passes?
5. Pastor challenged the group to make November a month of love in action, moving what has been learned in the head down into the heart. What is one specific thing your group or family could do this month to love someone outside your normal circle?