The Character of Christ (We must have the Fruit)

The Fruit of the Spirit

Week 1: Love – The Foundation of it All

Scripture:

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control…”

— Galatians 5:22-23 (ESV)

Reflection~

Love is the first fruit mentioned—and not by accident. In many ways, it’s the soil in which the rest of the fruit grow. God Himself is love (1 John 4:8), and all of our Christian life flows from that truth. This isn’t just any kind of love—it’s agape love: selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional.

It’s easy to love those who love us back. But what about those who are the hardest to love. Those who use and mistreat us. Those who spitefully use us and are vindictive. Yes, we still are required to love the meanest and enemy of enemies. It is challenging, but with Jesus, we can love like Christ. We can walk in the love that produces abundance and gives Glory to our Father. It is a Spirit-empowered love Paul describes. It moves us to love the unlovable, forgive the unforgivable, and serve when it costs us something. 

When we allow the Holy Spirit to work in us and  through us, love becomes more than just a feeling. It becomes a lifestyle that reflects Christ.

Today I submit to you,

"We must have the fruit." "Love"!

Question to Consider~

Who is God calling you to love today—not just in word, but in action?

Prayer~

Lord, thank You for loving me first. Help me to walk in Your love today. Teach me to love not just when it’s easy, but even when it’s hard. May Your Spirit grow in me a love that looks like Yours. Amen.