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In verse three, Paul states a significant truth that pertains to the field of good works. We should never do “good deeds” out of our own will for recompense or because it is a requirement.

Paul makes it very clear that works without love are dead. You may the richest person with too much money for your own good. Even if you contribute all that you have to charities and organizations around the world helping the poor, it will not mean anything if it is not out of love.

Jesus is the perfect example. Everything he did on this earth was out of love which gives his “good works” value, especially regarding eternal life.

In verse four, Paul states that love is patient. Sometimes we are irritated or angered by others, and we don’t know why. Not all irritability stems from sinful and selfish motives. Much irritability comes from a love of perfection. A desire to run things perfectly can erupt into anger at events or people that get in the way of our desires.

We as Christians sometimes struggle with the concept of judging others and elevating our morality to a higher standard than it actually is.

Anytime we become impatient or irritated with anyone, we must remember that perfection only exists in God. We need to always love our fellows Christians, not the visions we have for perfection here on earth.

1 Corinthians 13:3-4
If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast,[a] but do not have love, I gain nothing. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.