Before I started memorizing 1 Corinthians 13, I only thought of love in the context of spouse, family, or friends. Memorizing it expanded my understanding to include character development. Feel the squeeze from verse 5? It says that love, “Does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil.”

Let’s unpack this verse. Emulating the character of Christ in all circumstances means that our behavior reflects Him. What provokes you, gets you riled up, or causes an angry reaction? Proverbs 29:11 Amplified says, “A (self-confident) fool utters all his anger, but a wise man holds it back and stills it.” Are you gracious when others press your buttons?

Thinks no evil means that we are not keeping a record of wrongs. The past is passed. If you were slighted five minutes ago, that is now your past. Forgive in the moment and let it go. Otherwise the seed of resentment will be planted.