Biblical Answer

The darkest night may be a time of testing for love, but it can also be a time of growth and transformation. When love is put to the test, it can reveal the depth and strength of our relationships, and help us to discern what is truly important. As the apostle Paul writes, "Love never ends. As for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when the perfect comes, the partial will pass away. When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child; when I became a man, I gave up childish ways. For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known" (1 Corinthians 13:8-12). This passage reminds us that love is not just a feeling, but a choice that we make every day, and that it is the foundation of all relationships.

In the darkest night, love can also be a source of hope and comfort. When we are struggling with difficult emotions or circumstances, love can help us to find peace and perspective. As Jesus taught, "Love your neighbor as yourself" (Mark 12:31). This commandment reminds us that love is not just about our romantic relationships, but about our relationships with everyone around us. When we choose to love our neighbors, we are choosing to see them as God sees them - as beloved and valuable children of God. This perspective can help us to find hope and comfort, even in the darkest of times.

Ultimately, the darkest night may be a time of transformation and growth for our love. When we are faced with challenges and difficulties, we have the opportunity to choose how we will respond. We can choose to let our love be tested and refined, or we can let it falter and fail. 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). By choosing to love in this way, we can find hope and transformation, even in the darkest night. We can grow in our love for God and for others, and become more like Jesus, who is the ultimate example of love and selflessness. As we do, we can find peace, comfort, and joy, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.