The Love Dare by Alex Kendrick and Stephen Kendrick

Last updated: Oct 6, 2023

Summary of The Love Dare by Alex Kendrick and Stephen Kendrick

The Love Dare is a book written by Alex Kendrick and Stephen Kendrick that aims to help couples strengthen and improve their relationships. The book is based on the concept of a 40-day challenge, where each day the reader is given a specific task or action to perform in order to demonstrate love to their partner.

The book begins by emphasizing the importance of love in a relationship and the need for intentional effort to maintain and grow it. It highlights the fact that love is not just a feeling, but a choice and a commitment that requires action.

Throughout the 40-day challenge, the book covers various aspects of love and provides practical advice and guidance on how to apply them in daily life. Each day focuses on a different aspect of love, such as patience, kindness, forgiveness, and selflessness.

The tasks given in the book are designed to be simple yet impactful, encouraging readers to step out of their comfort zones and make intentional efforts to show love to their partner. These tasks may include writing a love note, performing a small act of service, or spending quality time together.

As the challenge progresses, the book also addresses common issues and conflicts that couples may face, such as communication problems, unresolved conflicts, and lack of intimacy. It provides practical strategies and advice on how to overcome these challenges and strengthen the relationship.

The Love Dare also emphasizes the importance of faith and spirituality in a relationship. It encourages readers to seek guidance and strength from God in their journey to love their partner unconditionally.

Overall, The Love Dare is a comprehensive guide that offers practical advice, challenges, and encouragement for couples to improve their relationships. It emphasizes the importance of intentional effort, love as a choice, and the power of small actions in making a big difference in a relationship.

1. Love is a choice, not just a feeling

In The Love Dare, the authors emphasize that love is not solely based on emotions or feelings, but rather a conscious decision that we make every day. They argue that true love is a commitment to act in the best interest of our partner, even when we don't feel like it. This perspective challenges the common belief that love is solely based on how we feel in the moment. By understanding that love is a choice, we can actively choose to love our partner even when the feelings may not be present, leading to a more stable and fulfilling relationship.

2. Love requires selflessness

The Love Dare highlights the importance of selflessness in a loving relationship. It encourages individuals to put their partner's needs and desires above their own. This selfless approach to love requires sacrifice and a willingness to prioritize the well-being of the other person. By practicing selflessness, couples can create an environment of mutual support and care, fostering a deeper connection and understanding between them.

3. Love is expressed through actions

The authors emphasize that love is not just a feeling or a set of words, but it is primarily expressed through actions. They argue that love is demonstrated through acts of kindness, service, and sacrifice. By actively showing love through our actions, we can strengthen the bond with our partner and make them feel valued and appreciated. This insight reminds us that love is not just something we say, but something we do.

4. Love requires forgiveness

The Love Dare emphasizes the importance of forgiveness in maintaining a healthy and loving relationship. The authors argue that holding onto grudges and resentment only hinders the growth of love. They encourage individuals to let go of past hurts and choose forgiveness, even when it may be difficult. By practicing forgiveness, couples can create an environment of grace and understanding, allowing love to flourish.

5. Love is a journey of growth

The authors highlight that love is not a destination but a continuous journey of growth and improvement. They argue that love requires effort, intentionality, and a willingness to learn and adapt. By viewing love as a journey, couples can embrace the challenges and setbacks as opportunities for personal and relational growth. This perspective encourages individuals to invest in their relationship and continuously strive to become better partners.

6. Love requires effective communication

The Love Dare emphasizes the importance of effective communication in building and maintaining a loving relationship. The authors stress the need for open and honest dialogue, active listening, and empathy. They provide practical tips and exercises to improve communication skills, such as setting aside dedicated time for meaningful conversations and expressing appreciation and affirmation. By prioritizing effective communication, couples can deepen their connection and understanding, resolving conflicts and fostering intimacy.

7. Love is not based on perfection

The authors challenge the notion that love is only for perfect people or perfect relationships. They argue that love is for imperfect individuals who are willing to grow and learn together. The Love Dare encourages individuals to embrace their flaws and imperfections, recognizing that love is not about finding someone perfect, but about accepting and loving someone as they are. This insight reminds us that love is not about perfection, but about embracing and supporting each other's journey.

8. Love requires commitment

The Love Dare emphasizes the importance of commitment in a loving relationship. The authors argue that love is not just a feeling that comes and goes, but a commitment to stay and work through the challenges. They encourage individuals to make a conscious decision to love their partner every day, even when it may be difficult. By prioritizing commitment, couples can weather the storms of life together and build a strong foundation for lasting love.