What we've learned so far in our Fruit of the Spirit series...
There is a lot of confusion on the subject of love in our culture. True love, according to Scripture, in the life of the believer is a matter of choice. The Bible says, "Over all the virtues put on love which binds them all together in perfect unity" (Colossians 3:14). And it is a matter of conduct - "Let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth (1 John 3:18). True love is the choice of conducting ourselves with God-like love in the relationships of our life. This is true with our spouse, family, friends, and neighbors. God expects us to love!
Here's what we need to remember however: What God expects us to do, we cannot do. At least we cannot do so without Him. Jesus said "Apart from me you can do nothing" (John 15:5). We are totally dependent on the work of the Holy Spirit in our hearts for love to happen. True love is not self-induced but Spirit produced. The Fruit of the Spirit is love... We are totally reliant on God providing for us that which we are completely incapable of presenting by ourselves. Love comes from God. Therefore, we must look to Him daily to supply that which we lack. Love is a matter of faith!
Summary: Christian character demands that I take responsibility to act out of love. This I can do with God's help knowing that "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Philippians 4:13).
May the Fruit of the Spirit be abundant in our lives!
Blessings,
Pastor Ron
P.S. This Sunday we focus on "JOY." |