What the Bible Says About Romantic Love
Romantic love is one of the most talked-about, sung-about, and written-about topics in human history. But while the world often defines love by passion, attraction, or fleeting emotion, God’s design for love is far deeper and more enduring.
If we want a love that lasts, we need to look at what the Bible actually says—not just what culture portrays.
Romantic Love is a Gift—But Not the Goal
Many people chase romantic love as if it’s the ultimate fulfillment in life. But the Bible reminds us that love is a gift, not our purpose.
- “Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot sweep it away.” — Song of Solomon 8:7
- “He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord.” — Proverbs 18:22
Romantic love is a reflection of God’s love, but it was never meant to replace it. The strongest relationships happen when God is first, and love is built on His design, not fleeting emotion.
The Foundations of Biblical Love
The Bible describes love differently than Hollywood does. It’s not just about feelings—it’s about action, commitment, and sacrifice.
- Love is a choice, not just an emotion.
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.” — 1 Corinthians 13:4 - True love requires sacrifice.
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” — John 15:13 - Romantic love should mirror Christ’s love.
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” — Ephesians 5:25
Lust vs. Love: The World Gets It Wrong
Many people mistake lust for love—but they couldn’t be more different.
- Lust is selfish; love is selfless.
- Lust fades; love endures.
- Lust takes; love gives.
- “Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body.” — 1 Corinthians 6:18
- “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” — 1 Peter 4:8
Romantic love was never meant to be shallow or temporary. The Bible teaches that love should be rooted in commitment, purity, and selflessness.
God’s Love First—Then Everything Else
Romantic love is beautiful, but it’s not meant to complete us—only God can do that. When we seek God’s love first, we become capable of loving others the right way.
- “Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” — Matthew 6:33
When God is at the center, love isn’t just about feelings—it’s about faithfulness.
Final Thought:
What kind of love are you pursuing? Is it based on feelings, or is it built on God’s design?
Share your thoughts—what’s one lesson about love that’s shaped your life?
