True Love Keeps No Record of Wrongs

Carol Copeland Ministries
Feb 3
3 min read

Hello, my beloved friends!

I’m Elder Carol Copeland, and I want to share with you a message that God placed on my heart during an ordinary moment in my kitchen. As I sat down for an early dinner, the Lord spoke these words to me: "If you don’t forgive, you know nothing about love."

That simple yet profound truth struck me deeply. Forgiveness and love are inseparable. In fact, forgiveness is love in action. Too often, we use the word “love” lightly without understanding its depth. But true love requires us to let go of past hurts and choose forgiveness, no matter how difficult it may be.

In 1 Corinthians 13:4-5, we are reminded of what love truly is:

"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."

Let’s pause on that last part—“it keeps no record of wrongs.” This is where many of us stumble. We say we love our spouse, our children, our friends, but when conflict arises, we bring up past mistakes, hurts, and failures. That’s not love; that’s resentment.

True love chooses to let go. It doesn’t mean you ignore the pain or pretend it didn’t happen—it means you release the hold it has on your heart.

What Love in Action Looks Like

Love isn’t just words; it’s actions. The next time you say “I love you” to someone, try this instead:

Say, “I’ll keep no record of wrongs.”Look your loved one in the eye—whether it’s your spouse, child, parent, or friend—and let them know you won’t hold their mistakes against them.
Commit to living out 1 Corinthians 13:5.Choose to let go of past grievances, even in moments of disagreement. Stop bringing up old wounds as ammunition during arguments.

This isn’t always easy. Forgiveness requires humility and grace, but it’s worth it because it frees both you and the other person to experience love as God intended.

God’s Love as Our Example

1 John 4:8 tells us, “God is love.” Everything about God’s character reflects perfect, unconditional love. He doesn’t keep a record of our wrongs. Instead, He forgives us completely when we turn to Him.

If we claim to know God and live for Him, then our lives must reflect His love. That means no grudges, no resentment, no tallying up offenses. Instead, we extend grace, just as God has done for us.

How to Start Loving God’s Way

Ask God for Help – If you struggle with unforgiveness or holding onto the past, bring it to God in prayer. He is faithful to help you heal and let go.
Reflect on God’s Love for You – Remember how many times God has forgiven you and how deeply He loves you despite your flaws. Let that be your motivation to forgive others.
Practice Daily Forgiveness – Every day, make a conscious decision to forgive and love others, even when it’s hard.

Beloved, love is more than a feeling or a phrase—it’s an ongoing commitment to reflect God’s heart. Let’s choose to love the way He loves, with patience, kindness, and forgiveness.

If this message resonates with you, I encourage you to read 1 Corinthians 13:4-5 and meditate on it. Let it transform the way you love those around you.

Be blessed, and remember: true love keeps no record of wrongs.