PART #2 GENUINE GODLY LOVE

The attitudes and characteristics of Godly ‘Agape’ love are stated in 1 Corinthians 13:1-8a. These principles are developed in our hearts and carried out in our lives when we are born of the Holy Spirit (John 3:8). Our measurement of love is found here as well, not according to other people, other Christians, or the world around us. One added ingredient is needed, forgiveness, love and forgiveness cannot be separated!

As we build our character of love, we must begin by developing the foundational principles of patience, kindness, and goodness. These will prevent rudeness, envy, pride, boasting, self-seeking, becoming easily angered, keeping a record of wrongs, and delighting in evil.

In other words, the more we rejoice with the truth, we put off the old nature and begin to put on our new nature in Christ enabling a love that always forgives, always protects, always trusts, always hopes, and always perseveres. We find the love that never fails; the example of Christ (1 Peter 2:20-25)!

“If the spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit, who lives in you (Romans 8:11).” So, “Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart (2 Timothy 2:22).”

Let’s look at Isaiah 52:14: Visualize what Christ, because of his love, was willing to suffer for you! His appearance was disfigured and His form was marred beyond human likeness by scourging and beatings. He willingly came down to earth. He humbled himself. He went to the cross. He was separated from God—he went to hell—for you and me! What grace! What mercy! What love!

This act of mercy and grace, to grant forgiveness for our sins and to reconcile us back to God, should throw us prostrate, or bend our knees before Christ in deep gratitude, worship, praise, humbleness and a committed promise to obey His command to love others as he loved us!

Without Holy Spirit filled love, we are NOTHING!
Elaine
Email: elaine@armoroflove.com