Galatians 5, Day 5

Read

Galatians 5:22-23

Paul continues his illustration with the fruit of God’s Holy Spirit, not the internal conscience of the believer.  The Spirit generates a singular fruit, love. Love is not one “virtue” or “ideal” among others. It is the care for others expressed on concrete acts of unselfishness.

Reflect

Love is the mainspring of all the other activities. There is no law against the fruit of the Spirit. When you are in Christ and are moved by the Spirit, the unexpected acts of Christian love will come in response to God’s grace.

Respond

Follow Jesus

If you’re sensing a theme about responding to the text with acts of love and compassion, there is a good reason. It’s all through this chapter. Pick one of the other expressions of love you identified on Monday. May your act of love come in response to God’s grace.

Pray

Lord Jesus, help me to bear the fruit of love. Thank you for loving me as I am and guiding me to bear fruit in my relationships with you, our congregation, and the community. Amen.

Celebrate

How did you respond to God’s love today? Let us know how you shared God’s love with someone today.

Use a notebook to record your responses. Share your celebrations in the comments below or in the Facebook group (You’ll find a link to request to join in your confirmation email. Not registered? Sign-up here.)