In her writings, Ellen White describes love as the very foundation of creation and redemption. She states, "Love, the basis of creation and of redemption, is the basis of true education" (Ed 16.1). Here are some key aspects of love as she describes it: * **The Nature of True Love:** It is not a fleeting passion but a deep, calm, and abiding principle. "True love is not a strong, fiery, impetuous passion. On the contrary, it is calm and deep in its nature. It looks beyond mere externals and is attracted by qualities alone" (2T 133). * **A Divine Principle:** Love is presented as the greatest gift from God, a divine and permanent power that transforms the character. "Supreme love for God and unselfish love for one another—this is the best gift that our heavenly Father can bestow. This love is not an impulse, but a divine principle, a permanent power" (AA 551.2). * **Its Origin:** Love originates from God and can only flourish in a heart where Christ reigns. "Love is of God. The unconverted heart cannot originate nor produce this plant of heavenly origin, which lives and flourishes only where Christ reigns" (GW92 311). * **The Law of Love:** The guiding principle for life is the law of love, summarized in the two great commandments: “‘Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself’” (HS 152.2). * **Love in Action:** This love is manifested through small, everyday actions and kindnesses. "It is the little attentions, the numerous small incidents and simple courtesies of life, that make up the sum of life's happiness" (2T 133). When we love others as Christ loved us, His mission is fulfilled in our lives. "When His parting words are fulfilled, 'Love one another, as I have loved you' (John 15:12); when we love the world as He has loved it, then for us His mission is accomplished" (DA 641.3).