Skip to content

When Love Was Tested: A Lesson I’ll Never Forget

Love isn't proven by how we feel in the good times, but by how we choose to act in the hard times

There was a time in my life when I thought I understood what love was—until it was tested. I was in a relationship that seemed perfect on the surface. We laughed together, shared dreams, and made promises. But the moment things became difficult, everything changed. Misunderstandings became frequent, pride got in the way, and we began keeping score of each other’s faults. That’s when I stumbled upon 1 Corinthians 13:4–7, and it stopped me in my tracks.

“Love is patient, love is kind… it keeps no record of wrongs.”

I realized I hadn’t been patient—I had been demanding. I wasn’t always kind—I was often reactive. And instead of forgiving, I was silently tallying up mistakes. That verse wasn’t just a definition of love; it was a mirror showing me how far I had fallen short.

Looking back, I’m grateful for that season of heartache. It taught me that love isn’t proven in the easy moments—it’s revealed in how we respond during the hardest ones. True love protects, trusts, hopes, and perseveres. It’s not about who’s right, but about choosing grace over pride.

Since then, I’ve been learning to love differently—with more patience, more kindness, and a heart willing to let go of past wrongs. The journey isn’t perfect, but it’s real. And every time I feel tempted to hold a grudge or speak harshly, I remember that verse.

Because love—real love—isn’t just a feeling. It’s a daily choice.

“Love isn’t proven by how we feel in the good times, but by how we choose to act in the hard times.”

Settings