LOVE STRUCK 1.0 Island with Pastor Mark

Sermon Note

Love in its unadulterated form comes from God because God is love.

From 1Peter 4:8,we are expected to give a 100% in relationships. Giving anything less results for a not so great relationship. We don’t want okay relationships, because that will cause us to settle and relationships are too important for us to settle. People don’t change, they expand in relationships. In relationships, the more you focus on yourself, the less you focus on the relationship. Marriage is an act of faith. From Ecclesiastes 4:10, we would also see that God is love, we’re made in his image, therefore we’re made in the image of love.

Being “love-struck” is when your emotions override your reasoning. However, love is never an excuse to stop functioning wisely or intentionally.

1. Love is not an excuse to stop building friendships. There is no such thing as love at first sight, only attraction at first sight. You cannot truly love what you do not know. Friendship is the foundation upon which lasting love is built.

Ask yourself:

• Can you have meaningful conversations with this person?
• Can you confide in them?
• Do you know their values, preferences, and worldview?

Relationships come with ups and downs. Friendship is the anchor that keeps love steady when emotions fluctuate. The “talking stage” should not just be about excitement or sparks; it should be about building a bond strong enough to endure seasons. Sparks may ignite a relationship, but friendship sustains it.

2. Love is not an excuse for sex (1 Corinthians 6:18-19 AMP): Kissing is also part of sex. Your body is the temple of the holy spirit. It is perfectly okay to block, mute or distance yourself from media platforms that give candy vibes as a form of protective layer for ourselves.
3. Being in love is not an excuse to compromise on your values (1 Corinthians 15:58): Compromise is not always about sex, sometimes it could show up as discipline, financial habits, work ethics and standards. Be intentional about your values and set clear boundaries. Love should refine you, not reduce you.
4. Being in love doesn’t stop you from building your dreams. Continue building your life, your career, your business, your purpose. Growth commands respect. Attraction may bring people together, but purpose keeps individuals fulfilled.

Love fades when glory fades – Keep becoming. Keep evolving.

5. Being in love isn’t an excuse to be possessive. You were created for impact and you can’t impact only your family. Possessiveness often stems from insecurity or unresolved trauma. Healthy love is secure, not controlling. You are not anyone’s possession — you are a partner, not property

In summary, be wise.  Know that not all that glitters is not gold. You have the Holy spirit in you and you know all things but engaging in fornication will dull your spiritual sensitivity.

Do not enter relationships based on societal standards or appearances. Many standards are built on pretense. Understand your capacity, your finances, your calling, and your season.

Above all, trust the Holy Spirit more than your emotions. Love deeply but love wisely.