LOVE ~ THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT

“Love never gives up,
never loses faith, is always hopeful,
and endures through every circumstance.”
1 Corinthians 13:7 NLT
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The fruit of the Spirit has many facets. Over the next weeks (the Lord willing) I will attempt to look at the nine facets recorded in Galatians 5:22.

All true believers have the Holy Spirit living in them. The fruit of the Spirit are the Godly qualities that grow in us to the degree that we are yielding to the Spirit’s control.

The word love is used in many ways in today’s society. “I love my wife – my cell phone – coffee – springtime – etc.” “Making love” is another expression. But the love we’re talking about today is unconditional divine love, the love that was demonstrated in the life of Jesus.

1 Corinthians 13 tells us this kind of “Love is patient and kind.” It endures mistreatment and hardships without grumbling and complaining. It has the capacity to return good for evil, and to pray for those who persecute us! This love enables us to be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven us.

“Love is not jealous or boastful or proud.” If we feel bitter and unhappy because of other people’s advantages, or possessions, we are not displaying God’s love. The same is true if we get “the big head” and brag to appear better – richer etc. than others.

“Love is not rude.” It is not ill-mannered - disagreeable or discourteous in manner or action. Instead, it is polite and treats others as it desires to be treated.

“Love does not demand its own way.” Demanding our way is pure selfishness and it will destroy any relationship in a hurry.

“Love is not irritable.” What a sobering thought, whenever I get irritated or annoyed, I am not showing love. “Love doesn’t keep a record of being wronged.” It’s ready to forgive and move on. "It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out.” It’s always on the side of what is right.

“Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.” It’s not the nature for Godly love to give up, because Love is who God is!

Let’s Pray –
Father, Jesus perfectly lived your unconditional love even to the point of dying on the cross for us. Help us to fully yield to your Spirit so his fruit will fully mature in our lives.
Amen