When is a time in your life when you have felt loved?
Make a list of words that are synonyms for "love."
As a group, read 1 Corinthians 13:4 aloud together. (below is the NIV version so you'll all be on the same page)
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
Using each of the descriptions of love (patient, kind, envy, boast, proud), have someone in the group talk about a time someone treated them this way. How did it impact them?
How has God demonstrated patience and kindness toward humanity throughout history? How has God demonstrated patience and kindness to the specific members of this group?
Why can envy be harmful in a relationship? What do you think is the positive virtue that is the opposite of envy? How can this be beneficial in a relationship?
Have each person in the group silently read the verse to themselves, but substitute their own name for love. (example: "John is patient, John is kind. He does not envy...)
Which of the statements is the most difficult to make? Why?
Have each person think of one relationship in which they need to practice some of these principles. Allow a few to share how they will do that this week.
Instead of praying for your group's needs, spend time praying for the people towards whom your group needs to demonstrate more love.
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