March 3, 2021
Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Paul describes the meaning of godly love in this passage (Greek word ἀγάπη). It is not a feeling—in contrast to our modern-day understanding of love. It is action-oriented. Godly love exhibits patience, kindness, humility, gentleness, faith, hope, and perseverance. Sound familiar? Much of this list aligns with the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). In other words, the Holy Spirit matures a godly love in us that bears fruit in the likeness of Christ—a love that forgives, serves, and sacrifices for the benefit of others.
Father God, help us to cooperate with your Holy Spirit in bearing the fruit of godly love. That we might be image-bearers of the One gave his all for us. Amen.
Rev. Gordon Green, M.Div., M.A. Counseling
Leave a Reply