Lust:

Lust, as depicted in the Bible, is a powerful and often destructive desire that is primarily self-centered and rooted in the flesh. It is characterized by an intense longing, particularly for what is forbidden or inappropriate. The Bible frequently warns against lust, highlighting its potential to lead individuals away from God's will and into sin.

In the New Testament, Jesus addresses the issue of lust in the Sermon on the Mount, emphasizing its seriousness: "But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman to lust after her has already committed adultery with her in his heart" (Matthew 5:28). This statement underscores the idea that lust is not merely an external act but an internal condition of the heart that can lead to sin.

The Apostle Paul also speaks to the dangers of lust, urging believers to live by the Spirit and not gratify the desires of the flesh: "But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh" (Galatians 5:16). Here, lust is contrasted with the life led by the Spirit, suggesting that it is a manifestation of the sinful nature that must be overcome through spiritual discipline and reliance on God.

James further elaborates on the progression of lust, illustrating how it can lead to sin and ultimately death: "But each one is tempted when by his own evil desires he is lured away and enticed. Then after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death" (James 1:14-15). This passage highlights the destructive cycle of lust, beginning with temptation and culminating in spiritual death.

Love:

In contrast to lust, love in the biblical sense is selfless, sacrificial, and rooted in the character of God. The Bible presents love as the highest virtue and the fulfillment of God's commandments. Love is described as an enduring commitment to the well-being of others, reflecting God's own love for humanity.

The Apostle Paul provides a comprehensive description of love in his first letter to the Corinthians: "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 account of wrongs. Love takes no pleasure in evil, but rejoices in the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things" (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). This passage highlights the selfless and enduring nature of true love, contrasting sharply with the self-centeredness of lust.

The ultimate expression of love is found in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Apostle John writes, "We love because He first loved us" (1 John 4:19), indicating that our capacity to love is rooted in God's initiative and example. Jesus' sacrificial death on the cross is the supreme demonstration of divine love, as noted in John 15:13: "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends" .

Furthermore, love is presented as the defining mark of a true disciple of Christ. Jesus commands His followers, "A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you also must love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another" (John 13:34-35). This commandment emphasizes the transformative power of love in the life of a believer, serving as a witness to the world of God's love.

In summary, while lust is a self-centered desire that leads to sin and separation from God, love is a selfless commitment that reflects God's character and fulfills His commandments. The Bible calls believers to reject lust and embrace love, living in a manner that honors God and serves others.