Bible – Bible Society of Zimbabwe

Jesus replied ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.

Love and relationships are important aspects of life, especially for younger generations navigating friendships, family dynamics, dating, and social connections. In a world where love is often portrayed in a confusing, fleeting, or superficial way, the Bible offers clear and timeless wisdom on what love truly means and how to build healthy relationships.

Here are seven Bible verses that will help guide you through the complexities of love and relationships.

1. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 — “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

In a world that sometimes focuses on instant gratification and fleeting emotions, the Bible reminds us that love is more about giving than receiving. Love isn’t just a feeling; it’s a choice to act with kindness and humility, even when it’s hard.

2. Matthew 22:37-39 — “Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”

Jesus simplifies love and relationships into two commandments: loving God first and then loving others. When your relationships are rooted in love for God, they will naturally reflect a love that values and respects others.

3. Proverbs 17:17 — “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”

Friendships and community are crucial, especially for the younger generation navigating through life’s challenges. Genuine friends love in every season, not just when it’s easy or convenient. They are there to support you during difficult times, and they offer strength and encouragement when you need it most.

4. 1 John 4:18 — “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.”

Many young people experience anxiety, fear, or insecurity in relationships, whether it’s fear of rejection, fear of not being enough, or fear of vulnerability. But this verse reminds us that real love, the kind of love God gives, casts out fear. In healthy relationships, love should create a sense of safety, not fear or insecurity. When you’re in a relationship that reflects God’s love, you will feel valued and cherished, not afraid or anxious.

5. Ephesians 4:2-3 — “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”

In a world where arguments and conflict are common, these verses from Ephesians encourage us to practice humility, patience, and unity in our relationships. It’s not always easy, but maintaining peace and working toward understanding are key aspects of healthy connections. Love isn’t about always being right; sometimes it’s about listening, understanding, and choosing peace over conflict.

6. Song of Solomon 8:4 — “Do not arouse or awaken love until it so desires.”

For young people, particularly in the context of dating and romantic relationships, this verse offers wisdom about timing and patience. Culture often pressures young people to rush into relationships or equates physical attraction with love. However, the Bible encourages us to wait for the right timing, to allow love to grow naturally and genuinely, without rushing into anything prematurely. This ensures that relationships are based on genuine connection and mutual respect.

7. Romans 12:10 — “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”

Instead of asking, “What can I get out of this relationship?” we are encouraged to honor and respect others, putting their needs ahead of our own. True love is about devotion and commitment, not just convenience or personal gain. When you prioritize honoring others, you build relationships that are strong, meaningful, and lasting.

Conclusion

Navigating love and relationships as a young person can be challenging, especially in a world filled with mixed messages about what love is and how relationships should work. However, these Bible verses provide a clear and countercultural view of love: one that is selfless, patient, kind, and enduring. Love isn’t just about feelings, it’s about action, commitment, and putting others before yourself. When your relationships are rooted in these principles, they will flourish in ways that bring fulfillment, joy, and peace. So, take these truths with you as you navigate love and relationships, always remembering that God’s love is the foundation of all healthy connections.

Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.

The Bible is rich with wisdom regarding the power of our words. Throughout Scripture, we are reminded that the tongue—though small—holds the capacity to uplift, destroy, heal, or harm. The words we speak can shape destinies, mend relationships, or cause deep wounds. Let’s explore seven Bible verses that illuminate the profound power of the tongue.

1. Proverbs 18:21 – “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.”

The words we choose to speak can bring encouragement, love, and healing, or they can cause hurt, division, and destruction. The “fruits” we reap from our words reflect their power—whether for good or ill.

2. James 3:5-6 – “So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire! And the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness.”

Although it is a small part of the body, the tongue can cause significant harm, much like a small spark can ignite an entire forest fire. James warns believers of the dangers of careless speech, reminding us that words can spread like wildfire, causing damage that can be difficult to undo.

3. Proverbs 12:18 – “There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”

Words spoken in haste or anger can cut deeply, inflicting pain and damage similar to physical wounds. Conversely, wise and thoughtful words can bring comfort, peace, and restoration, highlighting the importance of controlling our speech and choosing our words carefully.

4. Ephesians 4:29 – “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.”

We are urged to avoid corrupting or harmful talk and instead speak in ways that edify and encourage others. Words have the power to build up or tear down, and we are encouraged to use our speech to impart grace and support to those around us.

5. Proverbs 15:4 – “A gentle tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit.”

A gentle tongue, like a tree of life, offers nourishment, strength, and growth. In contrast, perverse or harsh speech can crush a person’s spirit, leading to discouragement and despair. The verse encourages us to speak with kindness and gentleness, fostering life and growth in others.

6. Matthew 12:36-37 – “I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.”

Jesus’ words in Matthew are a sobering reminder of the accountability we have for our speech. Every word we speak—careless or otherwise—will be subject to judgment. Our words reflect our hearts, and they play a role in our justification or condemnation. This verse underscores the importance of being mindful of our speech, knowing that it has eternal consequences.

7. Proverbs 16:24 – “Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.”

Words that are kind, loving, and considerate are likened to honeycomb—sweet and nourishing, bringing joy and health to both the speaker and the listener. The verse encourages us to speak in ways that bring sweetness and well-being to others, reflecting the love and grace of God through our words.

Conclusion

The Bible consistently teaches that the tongue, though small, wields immense power. It can bring life or death, healing or harm, joy or sorrow. As followers of Christ, we are called to use our words wisely, to speak life, and to reflect God’s love through our speech. By guarding our tongues and choosing our words carefully, we can positively influence those around us and honor God with our speech.

The Question about the Sabbath

(Mark 2.23-28Luke 6.1-5)

1 Not long afterward Jesus was walking through some wheat fields on a Sabbath. His disciples were hungry, so they began to pick heads of wheat and eat the grain. 2 When the Pharisees saw this, they said to Jesus, “Look, it is against our Law for your disciples to do this on the Sabbath!”

3 Jesus answered, “Have you never read what David did that time when he and his men were hungry? 4 He went into the house of God, and he and his men ate the bread offered to God, even though it was against the Law for them to eat it—only the priests were allowed to eat that bread. 5 Or have you not read in the Law of Moses that every Sabbath the priests in the Temple actually break the Sabbath law, yet they are not guilty? 6 I tell you that there is something here greater than the Temple. 7 The scripture says, ‘It is kindness that I want, not animal sacrifices.’ If you really knew what this means, you would not condemn people who are not guilty; 8 for the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath.”

The Man with a Paralyzed Hand

(Mark 3.1-6Luke 6.6-11)

9 Jesus left that place and went to a synagogue, 10 where there was a man who had a paralyzed hand. Some people were there who wanted to accuse Jesus of doing wrong, so they asked him, “Is it against our Law to heal on the Sabbath?”

11 Jesus answered, “What if one of you has a sheep and it falls into a deep hole on the Sabbath? Will you not take hold of it and lift it out? 12 And a human being is worth much more than a sheep! So then, our Law does allow us to help someone on the Sabbath.” 13 Then he said to the man with the paralyzed hand, “Stretch out your hand.”

He stretched it out, and it became well again, just like the other one. 14 Then the Pharisees left and made plans to kill Jesus.

God's Chosen Servant

15 When Jesus heard about the plot against him, he went away from that place; and large crowds followed him. He healed all the sick 16 and gave them orders not to tell others about him. 17 He did this so as to make come true what God had said through the prophet Isaiah:

18 “Here is my servant, whom I have chosen,

the one I love, and with whom I am pleased.

I will send my Spirit upon him,

and he will announce my judgment to the nations.

19 He will not argue or shout,

or make loud speeches in the streets.

20 He will not break off a bent reed,

nor put out a flickering lamp.

He will persist until he causes justice to triumph,

21 and on him all peoples will put their hope.”

Jesus and Beelzebul

(Mark 3.20-30Luke 11.14-23)

22 Then some people brought to Jesus a man who was blind and could not talk because he had a demon. Jesus healed the man, so that he was able to talk and see. 23 The crowds were all amazed at what Jesus had done. “Could he be the Son of David?” they asked.

24 When the Pharisees heard this, they replied, “He drives out demons only because their ruler Beelzebul gives him power to do so.”

25 Jesus knew what they were thinking, and so he said to them, “Any country that divides itself into groups which fight each other will not last very long. And any town or family that divides itself into groups which fight each other will fall apart. 26 So if one group is fighting another in Satan's kingdom, this means that it is already divided into groups and will soon fall apart! 27 You say that I drive out demons because Beelzebul gives me the power to do so. Well, then, who gives your followers the power to drive them out? What your own followers do proves that you are wrong! 28 No, it is not Beelzebul, but God's Spirit, who gives me the power to drive out demons, which proves that the Kingdom of God has already come upon you.

29 “No one can break into a strong man's house and take away his belongings unless he first ties up the strong man; then he can plunder his house.

30 “Anyone who is not for me is really against me; anyone who does not help me gather is really scattering. 31 For this reason I tell you: people can be forgiven any sin and any evil thing they say; but whoever says evil things against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven. 32 Anyone who says something against the Son of Man can be forgiven; but whoever says something against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven—now or ever.

A Tree and Its Fruit

(Luke 6.43-45)

33 “To have good fruit you must have a healthy tree; if you have a poor tree, you will have bad fruit. A tree is known by the kind of fruit it bears. 34 You snakes—how can you say good things when you are evil? For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. 35 A good person brings good things out of a treasure of good things; a bad person brings bad things out of a treasure of bad things.

7 Bibles about the end times

Although words of coming tribulation and judgement may worry you, do not worry about tomorrow. Christians are called to be lights in the world and share the Gospel today.

36 “You can be sure that on the Judgment Day you will have to give account of every useless word you have ever spoken. 37 Your words will be used to judge you—to declare you either innocent or guilty.”

The Demand for a Miracle

(Mark 8.11Mark 12Luke 11.29-32)

38 Then some teachers of the Law and some Pharisees spoke up. “Teacher,” they said, “we want to see you perform a miracle.”

39 “How evil and godless are the people of this day!” Jesus exclaimed. “You ask me for a miracle? No! The only miracle you will be given is the miracle of the prophet Jonah. 40 In the same way that Jonah spent three days and nights in the big fish, so will the Son of Man spend three days and nights in the depths of the earth. 41 On the Judgment Day the people of Nineveh will stand up and accuse you, because they turned from their sins when they heard Jonah preach; and I tell you that there is something here greater than Jonah! 42 On the Judgment Day the Queen of Sheba will stand up and accuse you, because she traveled all the way from her country to listen to King Solomon's wise teaching; and I assure you that there is something here greater than Solomon!

The Return of the Evil Spirit

(Luke 11.24-26)

43 “When an evil spirit goes out of a person, it travels over dry country looking for a place to rest. If it can't find one, 44 it says to itself, ‘I will go back to my house.’ So it goes back and finds the house empty, clean, and all fixed up. 45 Then it goes out and brings along seven other spirits even worse than itself, and they come and live there. So when it is all over, that person is in worse shape than at the beginning. This is what will happen to the evil people of this day.”

Jesus' Mother and Brothers

(Mark 3.31-35Luke 8.19-21)

46 Jesus was still talking to the people when his mother and brothers arrived. They stood outside, asking to speak with him. 47 So one of the people there said to him, “Look, your mother and brothers are standing outside, and they want to speak with you.”

48 Jesus answered, “Who is my mother? Who are my brothers?” 49 Then he pointed to his disciples and said, “Look! Here are my mother and my brothers! 50 Whoever does what my Father in heaven wants is my brother, my sister, and my mother.”

1 At that time Iesus went on a Sabbath day through ye corne, and his disciples were an hungred, and bega to plucke ye eares of corne and to eate. 2 And when the Pharises sawe it, they saide vnto him, Beholde, thy disciples doe that which is not lawfull to doe vpon the Sabbath. 3 But he said vnto them, Haue ye not read what Dauid did when he was an hungred, and they that were with him? 4 Howe he entred into ye house of God, and did eate the shewe bread, which was not lawfull for him to eate, neither for them which were with him, but onely for the Priestes? 5 Or haue ye not read in the Lawe, how that on the Sabbath dayes the Priestes in the Temple breake the Sabbath, and are blameles? 6 But I say vnto you, that here is one greater then the Temple. 7 Wherefore if ye knewe what this is, I will haue mercie, and not sacrifice, ye would not haue condemned the innocents. 8 For the sonne of man is Lord, euen of the Sabbath. 9 And he departed thence, and went into their Synagogue: 10 And beholde, there was a man which had his hand dried vp. And they asked him, saying, Is it lawfull to heale vpon a Sabbath day? that they might accuse him. 11 And he said vnto the, What man shall there be among you, that hath a sheepe, and if it fal on a Sabbath day into a pit, doth not take it and lift it out? 12 How much more then is a man better then a sheepe? therefore, it is lawfull to doe well on a Sabbath day. 13 Then said he to the man, Stretch forth thine hand. And he stretched it foorth, and it was made whole as the other. 14 Then the Pharises went out, and consulted against him, howe they might destroy him. 15 But whe Iesus knew it, he departed thece, and great multitudes folowed him, and he healed the al, 16 And charged them in threatning wise, that they should not make him knowen, 17 That it might be fulfilled, which was spoken by Esaias the Prophet, saying, 18 Behold my seruant whom I haue chosen, my beloued in whom my soule deliteth: I wil put my Spirit on him, and he shall shewe iudgement to the Gentiles. 19 He shall not striue, nor crie, neither shall any man heare his voyce in the streetes. 20 A bruised reede shall he not breake, and smoking flaxe shall he not quenche, till he bring forth iudgement vnto victorie. 21 And in his Name shall the Gentiles trust. 22 Then was brought to him one, possessed with a deuill, both blind, and dumme, and he healed him, so that he which was blind and dumme, both spake and saw. 23 And all the people were amased, and saide, Is not this that sonne of Dauid? 24 But when the Pharises heard it, they saide, This man casteth the deuils no otherwise out, but through Beelzebub the prince of deuils. 25 But Iesus knew their thoughtes, and said to them, Euery kingdome deuided against it selfe, is brought to nought: and euery citie or house, deuided against it selfe, shall not stand. 26 So if Satan cast out Satan, he is deuided against himself: how shall then his kingdom endure? 27 Also if I through Beelzebub cast out deuils, by whom doe your children cast them out? Therefore they shall be your iudges. 28 But if I cast out deuils by ye Spirit of God, then is the kingdome of God come vnto you. 29 Els howe can a man enter into a strong mans house and spoyle his goods, except he first bind the strong man, and then spoile his house. 30 He that is not with me, is against me: and he that gathereth not with me, scattereth. 31 Wherefore I say vnto you, euery sinne and blasphemie shalbe forgiuen vnto men: but the blasphemie against the holy Ghost shall not be forgiuen vnto men. 32 And whosoeuer shall speake a word against the Sonne of man, it shall be forgiuen him: but whosoeuer shall speake against the holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiuen him, neither in this worlde, nor in the worlde to come. 33 Either make the tree good, and his fruite good: or els make the tree euill, and his fruite euil: for the tree is knowen by the fruite. 34 O generations of vipers, howe can you speake good things, when ye are euill? For of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. 35 A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth foorth good things: and an euill man out of an euill treasure, bringeth forth euill things. 36 But I say vnto you, that of euery idle word that men shall speake, they shall giue account thereof at the day of iudgement. 37 For by thy wordes thou shalt be iustified, and by thy wordes thou shalt be condemned. 38 Then answered certaine of ye Scribes and of the Pharises, saying, Master, we would see a signe of thee. 39 But he answered and said to them, An euill and adulterous generation seeketh a signe, but no signe shall be giuen vnto it, saue that signe of the Prophet Ionas. 40 For as Ionas was three daies and three nights in the whales belly: so shall the Sonne of man be three daies and three nights in ye heart of the earth. 41 The men of Nineue shall rise in iudgement with this generation, and condemne it: for they repented at the preaching of Ionas: and behold, a greater then Ionas is here. 42 The Queene of the South shall rise in iudgement with this generation, and shall condemne it: for she came from the vtmost partes of the earth to heare the wisdome of Salomon: and beholde, a greater then Salomon is here. 43 Nowe when the vncleane spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh throughout drie places, seeking rest, and findeth none. 44 Then he saith, I wil returne into mine house from whence I came: and when he is come, he findeth it emptie, swept and garnished. 45 Then he goeth, and taketh vnto him seuen other spirites worse then himselfe, and they enter in, and dwell there: and the ende of that man is worse then the beginning. Euen so shall it be with this wicked generation. 46 While he yet spake to ye multitude, beholde, his mother, and his brethren stood without, desiring to speake with him. 47 Then one said vnto him, Beholde, thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to speake with thee. 48 But he answered, and said to him that told him, Who is my mother? and who are my brethren? 49 And he stretched foorth his hand toward his disciples, and said, Beholde my mother and my brethren. 50 For whosoeuer shall doe my Fathers will which is in heauen, the same is my brother and sister and mother.