By April O’Neil
Over the next nine weeks, we will explore each “fruit” as defined in Galatians 5:22-23; replenishing our spirit while nourishing our minds with Christ-like thinking. This week we will explore love.
But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT)
In 1 Corinthians 13:8, Paul tells us that love never fails. What would our world be like today if everyone experienced pure agape love; the unconditional love of God? With the daily stresses of life and work, we are often lured away from serving others in love, and fall captive to fear and discouragement.
This week, exercise your faith, and write someone a love letter. Studies show that you will improve your health by transforming your emotions. Think of someone close to you that could use your loving words of encouragement. It doesn’t have to be fancy, only heartfelt! Take a moment to pause and reflect, remembering all the things you love about them. If it’s your spouse, consider slipping your love note under their pillow or into their bag before they head out to work. Whether it is your sister, brother, aunt, uncle, daughter, son, cousin or friend, think of a creative way to deliver your message of love. Drop it in the mail, pick up the phone or deliver it via skype are just a few suggestions to get you started. Most of all, enjoy the experience of giving and receiving love. It’s a “fruit” that we just can’t live without.
