What is Love?

Pablo R. Diaz is Vice President of Ministries for Guideposts Outreach. In his article, The True Meaning of Love, he shares how praying together and enjoying each other’s company has connected him and his wife over the years.

One of the most important relationships in my life is with my wife, Elba. We have been through a great deal together. We have raised two wonderful children and discovered the power of human love in its own unique way. And this week we celebrate 35 years of marriage.

Of course just like all couples, we have had our ups and downs, but she is my life mate and the greatest partner I could have asked for. Because love is like faith, without these highs and lows, it would not grow. And yes, some relationships and marriages don’t last, but the ones that do prove that it takes great effort, forgiveness and patience.

Love gives us the strength to work through the difficult and messy realities we all face – like adjusting to the communication styles of each another. I’m a talker. Elba is a listener. And there are days when my talking gets me into trouble. But her graciousness and patience save the day and, more importantly, us.

Love also teaches us the value of prayer; when facing obstacles, it is the only way. It is prayer that gets us through financial setbacks, family issues and personal disappointments.

For us, it was prayer that lifted us when our son was born with a serious illness and when he was in a severe car accident 25 years later. And it was prayer that got us through our daughter’s move to the city.

But what is a relationship or marriage without fun, laughter and silliness? Not a strong one at all. Praying together and enjoying one’s company is the way our souls connect.

The Bible tells us, “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. Love never fails.”

I’m still learning the way of love but am much closer today, thanks to God and Elba.

(Prayer) Lord, thanks for the gift of love and for those who help us discover its meaning and power.

The best definition I have ever heard about love – the one we will check out this Sunday – is: “Love is an Unconditional Commitment to an Imperfect person.” Why is this important? “Unconditional” means there are no strings attached. We love others like Jesus loves us. “Commitment” means you are making a Choice to love. Your marriage is based on a commitment to the vow you made on your wedding day – to “love, honor, and cherish” until you are parted by death. “Imperfect” means you remember that your spouse is imperfect, just like you are, so you can help each other to grow to become more like Jesus.

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This Sunday, June 28, we will continue our series, “Home Improvement,” at the 10:35am worship service. This Sunday? “Do You Love Me?” (1 John 3:16; 4:10-11). What is love all about? Please invite someone to join you in the building or online for the Live broadcast on either Facebook (Honolulu AG) or our YouTube channel (Honolulu Assembly of God). We Livestream every Sunday to both locations and would love to have you join us!

Coming Up: “America Prays 250” on Saturday, July 4, from 9-10am at First Assembly (Red Hill). Join believers in united prayer across the nation as America marks 250 years of independence. Our 2026 “Celebration of Freedom” is the next day, July 5. A BBQ potluck lunch will take place right after the Sunday worship service and everyone is invited. Grilled teri-burgers and hot dogs plus buns will be provided. Please bring your favorite foods to add to the table: mac salad, fruit, chips, desserts, and other “ono-licious” picnic foods. The 2026 Hawaii District Men’s Conference takes place July 10-11 at First Assembly of God (Red Hill). Join with men from all across Oahu and neighbor islands to worship the Lord and grow in Him. Boys under 14 years of age are free. All others are $25. Register at hawaiiaog.com. Please let me know if you are interested in attending.

Aloha and Aloha ke Akua!