There is a lot to be said for being the right person at the right time in the right place doing the right thing in the right way.

The Apostle Paul speaks of this in 1 Corinthians 12 when he explains the body of Christ—that is, the people who are followers of Jesus. Every person in the body has been given gifts, talents, abilities, and position in the body (vv. 14-25).

Paul continues, in verse 28, outlining the appointments of God as far as rank and authority are concerned. Sounds like it should function as a well-oiled machine, right? Yes, it should. It is God's organization, but it is the human element that can foul up the works.

Paul interrupts the discussion about the organization and the workings of the body of Christ with this statement: "Now I will show you the most excellent way" (v. 31). What could be more excellent than good organization, with everyone knowing and fulfilling their role?

Nothing, really, if it weren't for the human factor. The very best people can rub each other the wrong way.

The most excellent way is described in 1 Corinthians 13, which has been described as the love chapter. In the first three verses, we learn from Paul that the very best things we can do are worthless if they are not motivated by love. He then specifically defines love with fifteen phrases.

Paul has been talking about the body of Christ, or the church. But let's move outside the church to our family relationships, work relationships, and general life circumstances.

Paul says love is patient and kind, does not envy, does not boast, and is not proud. How would that work with husband/wife relationships and with parent/child interaction? How far would a little kindness and patience go on the job? How much would traffic-incited anger be reduced with a little patience?

One might say that the "love stuff" just will not work in real life situations.

Really? Why not?

One reason may be that in our pride, we are afraid we will be taken advantage of. Paul said, "Love is not proud."

The love explanation continues: Love is not rude, self-seeking, or easily angered. Feeling boxed in? Love is covering every escape.

Love keeps no account of wrong. Love does not delight in evil, but rejoices in the truth. Love always protects, always trusts, always hopes, and always perseveres. Is anything ever always? Yes, genuine love is and does.

The final description by Paul in 1 Corinthians 13:8, "Love never fails," is the capstone. Never fails? Love never fails because the love Paul is talking about is a selfless, God-empowered love.

We look at the list of love qualities and realize that we cannot do this in our own energy. We must cry out to God for grace to give us the desire and power to love the way God loves.

Sound impossible? It is difficult, but not impossible.

Why not start today? Ask God for grace early in the day to make the day one of loving others just like He would.