Led by the Spirit预览

Spirit-Driven Love

But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness. - Galatians 5:22

Lucian, an unbelieving Greek writer (AD120-200), observed the warm fellowship and love believers in Jesus extended to each other. He wrote, “It is incredible to see the fervor with which the people of that religion help each other in their wants. They spare nothing. Their first legislator [Jesus] has put into their heads that they are brethren.” Around the same time, a Christian writer named Tertullian declared of Jesus’ disciples: “How they love one another! Look how they are prepared to die for one another.”

What’s the source of this type of love? According to Paul, passionate concern and steadfast practical care for others aren’t naturally conjured in human hearts. He wrote, “The Holy Spirit produces . . . love,” and he went on to share other attributes (Galatians 5:22). It’s likely the apostle listed love first because every other attribute flows from it. When the Galatians walked in step with the Holy Spirit, He helped them serve one another in love (v. 13), fulfill the law of love (vv. 14–16), and demonstrate their love in tangible ways (2:20).

As we give Him space in our lives, the Spirit will fill our heads and hearts with the desire to love other believers as family. And as He does, we’ll care for the helpless, meet the practical needs of our neighbors, and even die for one another — all out of love.

Marvin Williams

What’s difficult about loving others the way Jesus loved? How can you submit to the Spirit and love others well?

Dear Jesus, sometimes, my heart grows cold. May Your Spirit fill me with the warmth of Your love.