27/04/2026
Sunday Sermon – 26th April 2026
@ ELIM HQ, Bwari-Abuja
Ministering: REV. EMMANUEL OLOWONONI
Message Title: Speak the Love Language
Text: John 3:16
Love is an action word. It goes beyond mere confession; love is practical and must be expressed through actions. The Bible tells us that God loved the world so much that He gave His only begotten Son. This shows that God’s love is demonstrated through giving and sacrifice. He cares deeply for humanity and does not desire that anyone should perish.
Love, however, means different things to different people. Love only becomes meaningful when the recipient recognizes it as an expression of love. It is often said that only arrogant people love based on their own terms and agenda. True love is expressed in a way that meets the needs and desires of the receiver.
For example, you cannot offer someone pounded yam—no matter the effort and sacrifice involved—when what they truly desire is rice. Love is only complete when it is understood and appreciated by the person receiving it.
Furthermore, every demonstration of love must be properly “coated.” Love should be wrapped in respect and humility for it to be appreciated. Especially for a man, love is often perceived through the lens of respect. A man sees, receives, and values love when it is expressed respectfully.
On the other hand, love shown to a woman should come as support and genuine preference—not as a means to control or “buy” her. What is given to a woman should be special and unique, not something made common to everyone. There must be a sense of peculiarity and intentionality.
It is important to understand that people express and receive love differently.
THE FIVE LOVE LANGUAGES
While we should express love in all five ways, each person usually has one predominant love language.
1. Words of Affirmation
In expressing love, we must understand the power and protocol of speech because people respond differently to words. Words are powerful and must be used carefully.
God Himself affirmed Jesus, saying: “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; listen to Him.”
Speak kindly to your spouse. No level of provocation should lead to harsh or negative words. Learn to commend and appreciate your partner.
Even speak positively to yourself—affirm your own worth.
Parents should also use words of affirmation with their children, especially in areas like their education. Do not focus only on people’s faults; learn to recognize and acknowledge their strengths.
2. Gifts
Gifts are a reflection of thoughtfulness. It can be painful when gifts are not appreciated, especially when one considers the effort and sacrifice behind them.
Always look beyond the physical gift and value the intention behind it. For men, giving should not be a one-time act—it should be consistent for it to be recognized as love. At the same time, women should also give gifts to their partners.
A meaningful gift should be thoughtful and well-presented. The Bible says, “A man’s gift makes room for him.” There is always something you can give to honor someone if you truly desire to. You may even pray for divine insight on what kind of gift to present.
3. Quality Time and Companionship
The essence of marriage is companionship. Yet it is possible to have people around you and still feel lonely.
Make deliberate efforts to connect with your loved ones, especially your parents—do not leave them in loneliness. Jesus Himself made time to visit Mary and Martha, showing the importance of presence.
Communication tools like WhatsApp should be used to stay connected, not for quarrels or accusations. Although life is full of pressure, we must intentionally create time for those we love.
Nobody truly “has” time—we make time for what we value. Be available. Develop healthy communication habits. Create time to eat out, share experiences, and even engage in each other’s hobbies.
Fathers, in particular, must be present in their children’s lives. Avoid being an absentee father. If you do not fill that role, someone else may fill the gap—possibly in the wrong way.
4. Acts of Service
No one can do everything alone. Do not overburden yourself—learn to support one another. Even if you cannot perform a task, your presence and moral support still matter.
Men should take responsibility, especially in fixing things that need attention. If your wife prefers to handle household chores, support her by providing tools or machines that make the work easier.
5. Physical Touch and Intimacy
Physical touch is a powerful expression of love. When last did you hug your children, give them a reassuring pat on the back, or even offer a firm and warm handshake?
Simple gestures of touch communicate love, acceptance, and security in ways words sometimes cannot.
Conclusion
To truly “speak the language of love,” we must go beyond our preferences and learn to express love in ways that others understand and appreciate. Love must be intentional, respectful, and tailored to the needs of the receiver.
ELIM GLOBAL..Watering Lives for Fruitfulness!
