LOVE IS NOT . . .
It is not rudeG809, it is not self-seekingG2212, it is not easily angeredG3947, it keeps no accountG3049 of wrongs.
1 Corinthians 13:5 (BSB)
G809 ἀσχημονέω aschēmonéō – uncomely, indecent
The Complete Word Study Dictionary, New Testament, Spiros Zodhiates, Ed.
Love is not rude. “Uncomely” reminds me of something my (Susie’s) grandma would say, “That behavior is not becoming of a young lady.” Love never behaves in a way that is “unbecoming.” My (Susan’s) Grannie would say it this way: “Pretty is as pretty does.”
G2212 ζητέω zētéō – to seek, in the sense of endeavor, to try, e.g. followed by the acc. Of thing, to try to gain, to strive after, with the idea of earnestness and anxiety (1 Cor. 10:24)
The Complete Word Study Dictionary, New Testament, Spiros Zodhiates, Ed
Love is not in the relationship merely for what can be gained from it. Love exemplifies being a “giver” rather than a “taker.” Love is not “out to get something.” It is not seeking self-gratification. Love demonstrates gratitude.
G3947 παροξύνω paroxýnō – . . . In the NT, it means to provoke or rouse to anger or indignation . . .
The Complete Word Study Dictionary, New Testament, Spiros Zodhiates, Ed
Love (are you remembering to insert your own name?) does not fly off the handle at the least provocation. Love is responsive rather than reactive.
G3049 λογίζομαι logízomai – Actually, the verb logízomai means to put together with one’s mind, to count, to occupy oneself with reckonings or calculations.
The Complete Word Study Dictionary, New Testament, Spiros Zodhiates, Ed
Love does not set itself up as the good behavior/bad behavior accountant. It does not keep a list of every time a person has offended or wronged them to be thrown up to the person any time there is an argument. A former pastor of mine would admonish the bride and groom in the wedding ceremony to always “fight fair.” He would explain that only the issue at hand should be discussed rather than dredging up an entire list of previous offenses. Wow! Can I truly put my name there? Susie keeps no account of wrongs. Honestly, this can be a stumbling block for me because I have a long memory.
Father, taking an honest look at what it means to truly love, agápē, others and examining ourselves in light of those definitions is convicting. Enable us by the power of Your Holy Spirit within us to be more conformed to the image of Christ in the area of loving others. Thank You for the gracious love You have extended to us!