Living in Increase (Part 2) - Increase in LoveSample

Spirit of Love

The Greek word for “love” in our verses today is (you guessed it) agapē. If you’re just now joining our discussion on love, agapē represents God’s supernatural and sacrificial love for us. When 2 Timothy 1:7 says that God has given us a spirit of love, it’s saying God has given us the unique ability through His Holy Spirit to love as He has loved us.

1 John 4:18 says that “perfect love casts out fear.” There is no place for fear when we have the spirit of love inside us. When we’re filled with love, there is no room for fear.

However, John 15:9 takes it one step further. We are not only to be filled with love but also to remain in love. The Greek word for “remain” in John 15:19 is menō, which means to “abide” or “tarry.” It is one thing to be filled with the spirit of love but another to be constantly immersed in God’s love.

When we realize that we are filled with a spirit of love and constantly surround ourselves with God’s love, it is impossible to think poorly of ourselves. I know saying this is “impossible” is a strong statement, but it’s true! If we align ourselves with God’s way and Word, how could we hate something He loves dearly? We cannot hate ourselves and love God because we were made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27).

Therefore, a way to love yourself and who God made you to be is by being reminded that God loves you, and He’s put a spirit of love inside of you!

Emily N. Green

Action Step: Find a Bible verse that talks about the love of God. Read it out loud, and then thank God for His love for you!