It is a time to pursue God's will for our lives. This may mean putting to death old sins by bringing the cross to bear upon living for ourselves. We have to deal with the self which is always real. It is coming alive to God's expectations and will for our lives. Our spiritual health is exactly proportional to our love for God.
Love is intended to be growing.
If it is not growing, then it is going. Love can only grow when we work at it and develop it. We do this by sharing, communicating , and taking the time to do the little things which sustain a relationship. When we are young we feel strong and able to meet all of life's challenges. But when sickness hits, or misfortune occurs we ask questions.