The 'How' of Divine Love: Living the Pure Love of Christ

Brothers and sisters, if I could bottle one feeling—the kind of feeling that makes you want to kneel down, fall to your knees, and simply *thank* the Lord—it would be the feeling of true, selfless love. It’s the kind of love that doesn't require a special occasion, a fancy dinner, or even a perfect conversation. It’s the love that endures.

When I was studying up for my own missionary discussions last year, I kept thinking about that concept of "charity." We talk about it constantly in our mission prep sessions, and it’s a cornerstone of everything we learn in the temple and in our homes. But hearing Jeffrey R. Holland speak on this topic was a powerful reminder that this isn't just a doctrine to memorize; it’s a *way* of living.

He focused on the word "how." Not *when* do I love thee, nor *where* do I love thee, but *how* do I demonstrate it? It struck me like a bolt of revelation. So often, when we think about showing love—whether it’s to a companion, a friend, or even our own families—we get caught up in the *what* or the *when*. We focus on the big gestures, the grand pronouncements, or the perfect timing.

But the Spirit whispers that the true measure, the enduring measure, is in the *effort*—the daily, quiet, often unglamorous effort of being kind, patient, and selfless. Moroni 7:45 gives it to us: “Charity suffereth long, and is kind, envieth not, and is not puffed up, seeketh not her own.”

The Power of Selflessness: The Gospel Solution

Holland pointed out that selfishness is the root of most relational problems. And that rings so true, doesn't it? As we navigate the complexities of modern life—juggling work, family, and our sacred callings—it’s easy for our own little egos to take the wheel. We become preoccupied with what we *need* or what we *deserve*.

“These cost us nothing, and they can mean everything to the one who receives them.”

Think about that. Thoughtfulness. A kind word. True delight in another person’s success. These are the things that cost us nothing but require us to look outward, to see through the lens of Christ’s perfect love. This is the heart of being an internet missionary—it’s not about having the perfect talking points; it’s about the pure, unselfish desire to help someone connect with the truth.

This principle of divine love—this pure love of Christ—is the ultimate goal, the standard we are always striving toward. It’s a gift, bestowed by the Father, and it requires us to keep reaching, keep striving. It’s not just for our romantic lives; it’s for our temple covenants, for our relationships with our leaders, and for our efforts to share the restored gospel with our neighbors.

If we want to deepen this understanding, I highly recommend looking into the scripture study resources. Sometimes the best way to understand a concept like this is to explore it alongside others. Check out the Book Club options in HolyPlaces, or dive deeper into the related insights in the Social Scripture Study layer inside LivingBook. We can unpack these concepts together!

If you’re feeling the pull to learn more about applying this principle in your own life, I’ve got a little something to help guide your study. I’ve been spending time with Davee, and he’s been running through some challenging questions an investigator might ask about the nature of charity. It’s a fantastic way to practice answering with grace and gospel truth.

Remember, every member can be a disciple anywhere, all the time. Let’s commit this week to asking ourselves: In this interaction—with my family, at work, or online—how can I demonstrate the *how* of Christ’s love?

For those who want to keep this momentum going, I’ve left a few resources below. Keep studying, keep serving, and keep drawing near unto Him!