David and Samuel grew up together, attended the same church, and shared many of the same dreams. As they entered adulthood, both desired meaningful relationships and hoped to build families one day. Yet, the way they understood love was very different. David believed that love was a commitment rooted in respect, sacrifice, and God's purpose. Samuel viewed love primarily through emotions, attraction, and personal satisfaction. A few years later, David met Esther, a hardworking and humble young woman. Their friendship began gradually. They spent time getting to know each other's values, goals, and faith. David respected her opinions, encouraged her spiritual growth, and treated her with dignity. He understood that love was more than feelings—it was a daily decision to care for another person. Samuel met Sophia around the same time. She was attractive, outgoing, and admired by many. Samuel was immediately captivated. Their relationship moved quickly because it was built mainly on emotions and excitement. As long as everything felt good, Samuel believed they were deeply in love. Months passed, and life began to test both relationships. Esther's father suddenly became ill, placing a financial and emotional burden on her family. She had less time for social activities and became increasingly stressed. During this difficult season, David remained supportive. He listened, prayed with her, encouraged her, and helped where he could. He did not view her struggles as an inconvenience but as an opportunity to demonstrate genuine care. One evening, Esther asked him why he stayed so committed despite all the challenges. David replied, "Because love is not proven when everything is easy. Love is proven when circumstances become difficult." Meanwhile, Sophia lost her job and began facing personal challenges of her own. The excitement that had once defined her relationship with Samuel slowly faded. Their conversations became strained. Samuel became frustrated because the relationship was no longer bringing him the happiness and attention he expected. Instead of offering support, he began distancing himself. Eventually, he ended the relationship, explaining that things had become too complicated. Sophia was heartbroken, but she learned an important lesson: affection based only on feelings often disappears when those feelings are tested. Several years later, David and Esther were married. Like every couple, they faced challenges—financial pressures, career decisions, and family responsibilities. Yet their relationship remained strong because it had been built on a foundation deeper than emotions. It was built on faith, commitment, sacrifice, and mutual respect. One day, while speaking to a group of young adults, David shared a lesson he had learned: "The world teaches us to ask, 'What can I get from this relationship?' God teaches us to ask, 'How can I serve, support, and honor this person?' That difference changes everything."
