When we are in love we sacrifice for those we are in love with. We give of ourselves for the betterment of those we love. Love is a feeling that is like no other. The world is brighter, life is happier and our outlook of our circumstances is seen through a different viewpoint.

The bible tells us that Jesus loves us not for what we do but for who we are. Jesus died on the Cross because he loves us. He made that sacrifice so that we may be saved from our sins.

Deut. 6:5 tells us "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might."

As Christians this is something we should strive to do everyday. The love we have for the Lord will surely be seen by all those we come in contact with everyday in all aspects of our lives.

When we truly love the Lord we are instructed to keep his charge, his statutes, his judgments and his commandments (Deut. 11:1). We are to love the Lord and follow his plan for our lives. Clinging to him and serving him enthusiastically (Josh 22:5)

We are to love our neighbors as we love the Lord. Not just saying we love them, but hating that which is evil and clinging to what is right. Taking pleasure and delight in loving and honoring one another (Romans 12:9-10).

In Neh. 1:5 we are told of the blessings and promises of the Lord to those who love and obey him. Blessings abound to all who truly love one another. The protection of the Lord is with those who love him. He watches over all and keeps them safe and secure. (Psalms 145:20)

The love of a husband or wife should be second only to the love of the Lord. Loving each other as you love the Lord.

With all this love that we should have we must remember that (1John 2:15) instructs us to "Love not the world neither the things that are of the world. If any man loves the world the love of the Father is not in him." In other words we should not under any circumstances love the evil of the world which include the desire to buy everything that appeals to you and the pride that comes from wealth and importance as these are not the way of the Lord.

Take a moment today to show someone how much you truly love them. You might be amazed at how truly blessed your day will be.

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I came across this challenging meme while doing my weekly research for blog topics.

The challenge is to take a look at each of the Fruits of the Spirit. One per week and to see where you are with the particular fruit.

So each Friday for the next (9) weeks I will be writing about what I have learned and how I have or have not implemented these fruits into my own walk with Christ. This learning experience will help me and maybe help others who may be struggling in some way.

For those who are not aware of just what the Fruits of the Spirit are I will list them below:

Love

Joy

Peace

Longsuffering (Patience)*

Gentleness (Kindness)*

Goodness

Faith

Meekness (Gentleness)*

Temperance (Self-control)* 

Galatians 5:22-23 (KJV)

*Galatians 5:22-23 (TLB)

As an added bonus, I will be giving away a framed 4 x 6 version of the Fruit of the Spirit designed by Laurel Tree Creations. To qualify to be entered into the drawing you can do either of three things:

1. Sign-up for our newsletter (receive updates of new and exciting events)

2. Sign our guest book and leave a comment

3. Sign our feedback page (quality conversation here)

The more you enter the better your chances are of winning.

One entry per blog post please

Anyone commenting or leaving feedback on more than one Fruit of the Spirit post will be entered into a drawing to receive a framed 8 x 10 version of the Fruit of the Spirit designed by Laurel Tree Creations.

Mark your calendars the fun begins June 20, 2008 and runs every Friday until Aug. 15, 2008.

The drawing will be held on Sat. Aug. 16, 2008. Winners will be posted on Sun. Aug. 17, 2008. Be sure to check back to see if you have won.

Blessings to you and yours.

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