Sisters in ChristSample

Learning to Live a Life Marked by Love

"These older women must train the younger women to love their husbands and their children, to live wisely and be pure, to work in their homes, to do good, and to be submissive to their husbands. Then they will not bring shame on the word of God". Titus 2:3-4 NLT

What does it mean to love our husbands and children?

"Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance." 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 NLT.

There is much to unpack in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, but let’s focus on how this practically plays out in everyday moments and encounters.

1. How are we speaking to our husbands and children? Is it from a heart of love? Sometimes, we don't realize the impact of certain tones, words, and looks until we stop and self-assess. Often, I have found that the Holy Spirit convicts me of a particular behavior or tone. When convicted, I make amends with my child or spouse, seek forgiveness and restoration, and thank the Holy Spirit for bringing my attitude or actions to light.
2. Love beyond the physical. Yes, laundry needs to be done, and dinner needs to be cooked. Though these are beautiful acts of love for our family, there is more—We should also love their souls enough to feed and cultivate a hunger to know God.

Reading 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 can easily set off a feeling of shame in anyone because, honestly, there are moments throughout the day when we mess up and don’t respond in love. I am convinced this feeling of “shame” is a spiritual warfare tactic. If God has given me a decree to love…and He has…then He has made way for me to walk fully in love…and He has…through THE HOLY SPIRIT!

• “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.

Dear sister, from my experience, this is a daily part of humbling myself before God and asking the Holy Spirit to do what only He can do in my life. Sometimes, I feel exhausted and do not “feel” like being or doing. But it is in my weaknesses that I am learning to lean, rest, and glean strength found in the power of the Holy Spirit at work in my heart.

Prayer: Father God, how wonderful and freeing it is to know that You have equipped me to what You have called me to. In my daily walk with You, the Holy Spirit continues to sanctify me and transform me into the image of Jesus Christ. I Praise You, oh my Father, for loving me with such deep love. In this, I learn to love others as You have called me to. In Jesus’ name, Amen.