Love vs. Lust — What's the Difference — Meaning Explained

Love seeks the good of another in self-giving commitment; lust seeks the gratification of self at another's expense. Love builds up; lust consumes.\n\nScripture sets out the truth plainly. 1 Corinthians 13:4–5 declares: "Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil." This is the anchor of the answer.\n\nMatthew 5:28 confirms and broadens the picture: "But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart." When believers understand the distinction, confusion fades and obedience clarifies. Both ideas are grounded in God's character and meet ultimately in the person and work of Christ.