Love is one of the most misunderstood words of our language. For the spiritual love, from which our soul is created, is very different than the one which we express physically. In fact, love has erroneously become synonymous with sex; and we have even given the sexual act the more affectionate name of “making love”. But, love can not be made physically. And sadly, in our present society, sex is very often unrelated to any type of love at all.

In reality, sex and love are about as far apart as the earth and the sun. Sex is a natural, physical act, or instinct, which occurs in most animals and species. And while at times, in humans relationships, the act can be loving, there are many instances when sex has nothing to do with love at all, i.e. prostitution, rape, one night stands, etc… During these times sex is raised no higher than a base animalistic instinct and/or predatory act.

Since we put so much emphasis on the sexual part, many of today’s relationships aren’t really expressing true love. The love upon we which we are building is more base and selfish; because we are seeking to simply satisfy a physical desire, want, need, or pleasure. Instead of being with a partner because of love, we’re entering into relationships for security, what a person can give us, because we’re enjoying the physical intimacy, etc… When this occurs, rather than building on love we are building on selfishness and lust. And this is why there is such a high rate of infidelity and divorce within society.

True Love isn’t something that seeks anything in return. It is an eternal quality which comes from our inner being. For, it was conceived in the realm of spirit and is the true essence of our soul. And partners in a relationship which is built upon spiritual love seek what is best for each other.

This type of love is the strongest force in the universe; and a purer love which is extremely different than what you might be used to giving to receiving. But, this true love (or spiritual love) is what we must nurture and express in our daily living. It is a love from a totally higher level of consciousness. It is an unconditional love which looks beyond any physical appearances or attractions.

Spiritual Love is totally unselfish. It is the kind that gives only and seeks nothing in return. It is compassionate; for it has more of a genuine concern for the needs of others than it does for itself.

St. Paul gives us one of the best definitions of spiritual love when he says it’s a:

“love that is patient, a love that is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. It’s a love that does not delight in evil, but rejoices in the truth. It always trusts, always hopes, and always perseveres” (1 Corinthians 13:1-7).

This definition best expresses the kind of love that God is looking for all of us to cultivate within ourselves and give to those around us. To love is an act of our will and we must will that this Spiritual Love be expressed through us. It is already with in us, it just takes some practice & determination to bring it forth.

You can think of this spiritual love as a flower that must be watered, fed, and pruned in order to grow. Without care it will wither or be overrun by the weeds of the world. If you feel you are lacking in this love, or would like to know it and understand it, then simply turn within & ask God to see it. God, Himself, is a continuous fountain of this pure and perfected love and is more than willing to let it fill your heart.

By turning within, we’ll discover that this spiritual love already exists within us. It is the nature of our soul and it’s just waiting to be expressed. When we allow this spiritual love to come forth & guide our actions we are choosing to operate from a higher level of being. And by learning to channel this love through us it has the power to work miracles and change the world.

God bless you on your journey & remember to always — Heed the Spirit,

Anthony