Christ Quote by Jay E. Adams
““Love is not first a feeling. Though the feelings come later and grow thick in the basic loam of love, they don't constitute the sum and substance of love. Love is doing whatever good God says you must do for another, to please God, whether (at first) it pleases you or not. You must do so because He says so; and you don't wait until you feel like doing so. Love begins with obedience toward God in which one gives to another whatever the other needs. Love is not a gooey, sticky sentimental thing; it is hard to love. Often it hurts to love. Love meant going to the cross through the garden of Gethsemane. Christ did not feel like dying for your sins, Christian, but He did so nonetheless. The Scriptures teach that he endured the cross while focusing on the subsequent joy that it would bring.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Christian Counselor’s Manual by Jay E. Adams, 1970
Love is defined by obedient, self‑sacrificial action toward others, rooted in divine command, not merely feeling.
In simple terms: Love is obedient, self‑sacrificial action, not just feeling.
Key Takeaway
Act lovefully, regardless of feelings.
Themes
love
obedience
self‑sacrifice
spiritual duty
Mood
serious
reflective
Type
theological
practical
When to use this quote
- marriage counseling
- parenting
- community service
- personal discipleship
Key Concepts
Divine command
agape love
service
suffering
Questions to Reflect On
- What actions demonstrate love beyond emotion?
- How do you respond when love feels hard?
A Different Perspective
Love can be painful and demanding, challenging personal comfort.
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