Finding True Love

"Falling in love". Has it ever happened to you? Being the daddy of teens, I have had many urgent talks with my daughters about what to do because this event had happened to them. There is never a time more serious, and it is important to stop and ask ourselves what this really means.

The big problem with "falling in love" is how to know when it’s real and when it’s not. When we see someone that looks good to us, we sometimes start to fantasize. We imagine ourselves with that person. When we finally meet and discuss the possibility of dating, the ecstasy begins.

We want to be with each other all the time. We talk for hours on the telephone, and dream about each other at night. This thing that is happening feels so good, we never want it to stop. No doubt about it, a need we have is being met in a big way.

The problem comes when something happens that doesn’t feel so good. For example, a harsh word of insensitivity or a request for more space can quickly stop us cold. You see, it is easy to get romantically involved with someone. All it takes is for you to look good to me. But love will always consider the other person.

Falling in love is not something that happens quickly. If we are really questioning whether or not our relationship is truly love, we will have to slow down and wait. Love proves itself over time. Love is never quick or shallow; love is slow, deep, firm and lasting.

Love is a something that we all want and need. While it’s possible that a quick romance can lead to love, most often it doesn’t. The best thing for us is to not get discouraged or frustrated, but be sensible. Set our standards high and refuse to compromise.

Above all, live a life for Jesus Christ. As we trust God with our life and relationships, His standard automatically screens and filters for us. We need God to help us slow down and wait, because that is where most of us make our first mistake.

Edmund Brown