Daily Scripture Reading: 1 Colossians 13:13 KJV
1 Colossians 13:13 KJV
(13) And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.
Today’s Devotional Is THE FRUIT OF The SPIRIT LOVE
LET US REMOVE the emphasis on fruit as opposed to the works of law. Work involves effort, strain, sweating, straining the muscles, and sweaty brows. But fruit is easy and natural, as the sap flows from the root to the bough and the bud. Our Christian life should reflect Christ’s exuberance. Paul, the Apostle of Christ, prayed for Christ to dwell in his converts’ hearts so that they could be grounded and rooted in love. Only when the Holy Spirit fills you to the brim, will you be able to love all men.
It is important to distinguish between the emotions of love and love. Although the former is possible at all times, it’s not always easy to do so. The Pentateuch’s ancient words, which our Lord repeated, showed us that we can love God with our minds and our strength as well as our hearts. Our emotions do not control our mind or strength. Instead, our wills do. You can love by choosing to give your thoughts and energies to another person for the glory of God. We will find that our emotions turn into a sacred glow and feel a sense of affection.
St. Paul makes a distinction between the Gifts of the Church (the chapter from which this text is taken) and Love (the chapter from which it is taken). After reviewing them all, he concludes that they are worthless if they lack Love as their inspiration and heart.
“God is Love” is the greatest phrase in the English language. The essence of love is not something you can define, but you can describe the effects and the fruits of it. Dr. Weymouth’s translation is: “Love is kind and patient, does not envy nor show jealousy, is not self-assertive nor boastful, and is not conceited and proud.” She doesn’t act in an unprofessional manner, or seek to be self-exaggerated, nor do she rage out in passionate anger, or brood over wrongs. She doesn’t take pleasure in injustice done by others and she joyfully supports the truth. She is a silent person, but she has the ability to trust, hope and persevere.
Each of these clauses should be taken seriously and we should ponder if our lives are achieving these high ideals. God, please send us a baptism of this love!
PRAYER for Today
O Lord, my love is like a flimsy spark. I wish it was a hot flame. It can be Kindled by the Holy Spirit’s breath, until Thy love restrains me. AMEN.