Fruit of the Spirit: LOVE
Scripture teaches us the paramount importance of love. Yet the world has replaced it with selfishness. “What can I do for you?”, has been replaced with “what can you do for me?” Love is caring for someone without the expectation of anything in return. Being able to care about someone even when they don’t return the favor isn’t stupid, it’s a strength.
On the flip side, it’s also selfish to only give to others without allowing anyone to give to you (especially when you can’t “pay it back”). Doing so deprives others of the opportunity to love the way God calls them to. Furthermore, having that wall up affects our relationship with God, because in order to have a relationship with Him, we have to be able to receive abundant love and grace and mercy, which we can’t repay.
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. (Galatians 5:22–23)
#love #fruitofthespirit #selfishness #whatislove #biblestudy
Reflecting on the concept of love as described in Galatians 5:22–23, I've found that embodying this Fruit of the Spirit requires a conscious effort to shift away from modern cultural norms that emphasize self-interest. In my personal journey, I noticed the challenge of giving love selflessly, especially when it’s not reciprocated. However, living this way has helped me grow stronger emotionally and spiritually, realizing that real love isn't transactional. At the same time, I once struggled with allowing others to show their love to me. I thought accepting help or kindness was a sign of weakness or debt. Over time, I understood that refusing to receive love can hinder others from expressing their God-given capacity to love. This mutual exchange is essential—not just for healthy relationships with others but also for deepening our connection with God, who offers us grace, mercy, and love freely without expectation. Balancing giving and receiving love creates a healthy, vibrant spiritual life. It allows us to experience the fullness of God's love and reflect it in our interactions. Practicing gentleness, kindness, and self-control as part of the Fruit of the Spirit transforms how we relate to others and ourselves. This dynamic helps combat the pervasive selfishness in today's world by replacing "What can you do for me?" with the humble and empowering question, "What can I do for you?"
Your sermons are always instructive, practical, & they line up with God's Will. Thank you so much for your teaching.