Introduction
The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines love as a strong affection for another arising out of kinship or personal ties.
In Greek, however, several words are used to distinguish the concept that English combines under the word “love.” These include agape (unconditional, selfless), Philia (affectionate, brotherly), Eros (romantic, passionate), and Storge (familial) love.
God is love, as 1 John 4:16 tells us. He serves as the foundation for love. No conversation about genuine love can be complete without mentioning God and His love. The type of love associated with God is called agape. A perfect description of God’s love is found in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7. This love differs from friendship love, called philia.
A true understanding of God’s love has done and still does several things for me. One of which is the permanent cure for all forms of complex and insecurity. As an individual, one of the most liberating truths I have received is that the God who has the highest standard loves me, despite my imperfections. This is freedom! I no longer strive to measure up or please anyone; the love of God has qualified me.
God’s love has several characteristics. These also distinguish it from friendship love (philia), and they are:
1. Sacrificial vs Unsacrificial
The love of God is sacrificial. For something to qualify as a sacrifice, it must be precious to the giver and offered for the sake of the receiver. God sent His precious Son for mankind (John 3:16, John 15:13). Sacrificial love is a key aspect of God’s love. It shows that love is not just a feeling but a commitment to prioritize the needs of others above one’s own (John 15:13). This is different from friendship love, where even when sacrifices are made, they are often done to get something in return.

2. Unconditional vs Conditional
Agape love is unconditional. There is nothing we have done or not done to deserve God’s love. Scriptures tell us that while we were yet God’s enemies-sinners, Christ died for us (Rom. 5:8). A man may scarcely die for his friend, but no man can die for his enemy. This distinguishes God’s love from friendship love that is based on mutual affection or common interests.
The parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-22 vividly illustrates how unconditional God’s love is for His children. The father didn’t even wait for the younger son to finish his rehearsed confession; instead, he instructed his servants to give him the royal treatment he did not deserve.

3. Everlasting vs Temporal
God’s love is eternal (Psalm 100:5NIV, Psalm 136:1NIV). It does not run out (Lamentations 3:22-24MSG). Some human friendships demonstrate great, lasting love, as seen in David and Jonathan (1 Samuel 18:1,3; 1 Samuel 20:17), but they can never be described as eternal. They are temporal, fleeting, and subject to change once the demand of one party is not met. But Romans 8:38-39 assures us that nothing can separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus.

In conclusion, true friendship, at its best, is temporary, conditional, and involves making sacrifices with the hope and intention that it will be reciprocated. But God’s love is eternal, unconditional, and sacrificial.