Daily Devotional – Monday, January 13, 2024
But the fruit of the Spirit is love…
Galatians 5:22 (NKJV)
In a recent Bible study session, we recalled that God expects us (actually, commands us) to love our enemies. On the other hand, we established that loving one’s enemy is easier said than done. There is a special reason, however, why you can love your enemy.
The Fruit of the Spirit is Love…
When a person becomes your enemy, you will have little or no peace. Your foe may express his hostility in the form of gossip, snide remarks, open insults, spreading malicious information, and even physical violence. Some may even harm your loved ones or attempt to kill you.
How then do you even contemplate being affectionate to such an individual? The natural human tendency would be to hate that person back and possibly hit back! This feeling does not respect your age or religious profession. Why then would Jesus expect us to love our enemies and do good to those who despise us?
Why You Can Love Your Enemy
Thankfully, God has made provision for His command to love all people, including our enemies. It has to do with God living in our hearts and growing spiritual fruit in our lives. According to Apostle Paul, “…the fruit of the Spirit is love…’ (Galatians 5:22). Yes, love is a natural product of the Holy Spirit dwelling in our hearts.
A human being cannot by himself produce the kind of love that embraces an enemy. Unconditional love emanates from God only. Only the indwelling Holy Spirit can give us the ability to do what only God can do—love our adversaries unreservedly. If you are struggling with forgiving and loving your enemy, invite the Holy Spirit into your heart today.
Prayer
Holy Spirit, imbue and inundate my heart today that I may love others, including my enemies.
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