Biblical Answer

The Nature of Love as a Choice

From a biblical perspective, love is not just an emotion, but a choice. It is a decision to act lovingly, not just a feeling. This concept is often referred to as "volitional love," where the choice to act lovingly is the test and ultimate proof of love. As the Bible teaches, "A new command I give you: Love one another" (John 13:34, emphasis added), indicating that love is a verb, not just a feeling.

The Importance of Commitment

Love is not just a feeling, but a commitment of will. When we choose to love, we are committing ourselves to act lovingly, even when it is difficult or costly. This commitment is not based on how we feel, but on our decision to act with love. As the Bible teaches, "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres" (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). This kind of love requires a commitment of will, a decision to act with love, even when it is difficult.

The Role of God in Love

God is not just a distant observer of our choices, but is actively involved in guiding us to make choices that are in line with His will. As the Bible teaches, "God works all things together for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28). This means that God is not just a passive observer, but is actively involved in guiding us to make choices that are in line with His will. When we choose to love, we are not just making a decision based on our own desires, but are being guided by God's prompting and inclination. This means that our choices are not just based on our own feelings, but are being guided by a higher power. As the Bible teaches, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28). This means that our choices are not just based on our own desires, but are being guided by God's will. When we choose to love, we are not just making a decision based on our own feelings, but are being guided by God's prompting and inclination. This means that our choices are not just based on our own desires, but are being guided by a higher power.