Although I speak eloquently with a voice like an angel
Yet if I have not love or kindness,
I am like an annoying sound.
And though I proclaim God’s Word and understand all secret truths,
Without love, my mountain-moving faith
Amounts to nothing at all.
Though I give away everything, all my money and possessions—
Even sacrificing my life—
Without God’s love, I gain nothing.
Love is not jealous, boastful, or proud, or easily provoked
Love does not seek its own or act unseemly
Rejoices not in unrighteousness.
Love is patient, kind, and true. It bears, believes, and hopes all things.
It endures without wavering
And overlooks a suffered wrong.
Though tongues, knowledge, and prophecy cease and though I lie silent in the grave,
True love and faith and hope endure,
The greatest of these is love.