What is the difference between lust and love? During this “season of Valentines” Beth and Kristofer cover this (often unknowingly) confusing and vitally important topic before we dive headlong into the pink and roses and hearts and whatnot. Beth and Kristofer share how to tell the difference between lust and love, and how to teach that to impressionable minds and hearts. And they do this in the context of Mortal Sin and Theological Virtue: Lust and Love, respectively. They also, right out of the gate, point to Nick’s seven-part series about Love as a great resource on our web site for this discussion, which is linked to in the show notes. Living in this world, but not of it, is difficult, and Beth and Kristofer offer us some pointers on how to do that, particularly in this day and age. And, no, there is no inappropriate or “parental discretion advised” content in this episode. But they do get attacked by a tree!

Beth and Kristofer remind us that love without agape is lust. They cover the dangers of lust and how the Evil One can lead us down the road of lust without us even realizing it, and it is important to stay vigilant to avoid the folly of lust. We have to also keep in mind, as Beth and Kristofer say, that after marriage we don’t suddenly lose lust, and that it is important to stay even more watchful of the Devil’s schemes.

They further discuss the beauty and wholeness of Love and how, in proper perspective, it fulfills the things we often pursue in lust. Love, being a verb (as Kristofer likes to say), is an action, while lust is a feeling. That basic tenet helps to focus our understanding on the difference between the two, and helps to teach that difference to others.  Beth and Kristofer share some of the saints’ takes on the topic, and remind us of Pope Saint John Paul II’s Theology of the Body message where he famously reiterates that “Love is willing the good of the other.”

And, to wrap up, Kristofer and Beth offer some thoughts and encouragement for those in relationships who need help.

REFERENCES:

Nick’s series on Love. Probably the most underrated article on this topic.
What is Love?
Agape – Sacrificial Love
Eros – Sexual Romantic Love
Eros – Sexual Romantic Love in the Single Life
Storge and Philia – Love of Family and Friends
What Love Is
What is Love? Tools and Resources

Also, check out chastity.com for more in-depth ways to protect yourself from lust.

Hotlines:

National Domestic Abuse Hotline: 800-799-7233
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration:  1-800-662-HELP (4357)

Also, please look for Crisis Pregnancy Centers near you if you or a loved one needs support. In many communities in the United States, dialing 211 will connect you with help.

Most areas have shelters for women escaping domestic abuse where women and their children can stay anonymously, as well. Calling 911 is always an option to help you get and stay safe, with or without law enforcement involvement.

Some items on our site that will help in understanding this topic:

Podcast Episode: Saints – Episode 16

Podcast Episode: Our Saints – Episode 18

Podcast Episode: Caring For Our Earthly Home – Episode 95

Podcast Episode: Giving Back – Episode 127

Video: Fruits of the Spirit: Love