We know there are various types of love – which in other languages and cultures are so much easier to distinguish between. Most commonly love is separated into three types of love: Eros; Philos; and Agape. According to wiki.answers.com : Agape — unconditional love, eg God for mankind Philia — Philiadepia, the city of brotherly love, or love that exists between close friends. Eros — sexual, erotic love And a forth Storge — Love that grows between family members.

Eros is the most immediate and lowest form. Philos is developed over time however some people just 'click' and it feels like they have been friends forever. Agape takes time to develop – working through various situations especially where true character is revealed. This one is truly a gift from God. For marriage, ideally there will be a mix of all. So what is love? It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.

"Love is patient, love is kind. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails." 1 Corinthians 13: 4 – 8 What does love look like? Love is patient. This is not referring to people being punctual but rather over time love grows. Be patient with each other. Love is kind. Perhaps when your beloved does something really stupid – don't even mention it!

All relationships require work and those between a man and a woman is especially tricky as we are so different. If you look closely, they will also have done this for you… many times. It does not envy. True love is where you can genuinely delight in the other's success. Be encouraging of their good fortune. It is not boastful. Humility is a fruit of the spirit. When we look closely those seemingly small gifts are often the ones to be treasured most such as the warm hug of your child.