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“Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant,” I Corinthians 13:4 (ESV)

Simple reminders always serve us well. In the course of my work day, I’m constantly reminding others or reviewing my calendar to remind myself. Important events and checklist items that can’t get buried in the pile of undones. Phone calls we need to make. What would I do without my planner and notes? I’d be lost and scrambling.

A friend gave me a sweet reminder the other week – a wallet card inscribed with the beautiful words from I Corinthians 13:4. Familiar words read at weddings. Convicting words reminding us that our actions and reactions glorify God when we display the fruit of His love. Have to admit it’s much easier to read those words than to display those words.

Let’s keep it real here – how is our fruit bearing of God’s love going? I thought I was doing a pretty good job until I placed that little reminder on my desk at work. Clearly visible as I worked and interacted with others, I was challenged on a daily basis to exhibit patience and kindness. When computer issues frustrated me, I saw those words. When someone interrupted my busy schedule and needed my help, I saw those words. While sitting in traffic, I remembered those words. Why? Because they were right before my eyes every day.

Hate to admit it, but there were days when I purposely ignored gazing in the direction of that card. Why? My fruit was more shriveled than flourishing. My actions were resistant because I defaulted to reflecting self versus reflecting God. Busyness distorted my view. Frustration clouded my desire. Bottom line I excused away what was truly important and in those moments, I pushed aside what I knew would please my God.

Just in case we all need a quick refresher let’s unpack what God is telling us to do or not do when it comes to bearing the fruit of His love to others:

Be patient – even tempered while enduring trying circumstances. In other words, it’s being long suffering and prone to calmly wait rather than complain or become irritable. Definitely includes moments spent standing in long lines, waiting on others and especially waiting for God’s timing.

Be kind – warmhearted, considerate, humane, gentle and sympathetic. It is characterized by those who intentionally choose to be nice and extend help to others. Especially includes showing kindness even when it’s not reciprocated.

Do not be envious by having an intense desire for what someone else accomplishes or possesses. Jealousy robs us of the joy of celebrating others. Basically, it includes minimizing the success of others because we desire their success for self.

Do not be boastful – consumed with self-importance, adoration. Shouting our accomplishments loud so others know what we did or what we gave. Generally includes magnifying anything we have done in front of others desiring the praise of man versus the praise of our God.

Do not be arrogant – prideful, puffed up. Seeking to place ourselves above others. Always includes moments when we seek the best for self or exhibit unjust judgment of others to make us feel superior.

Sweet friends, we all need the word of God visible to our spiritual eyes especially when it comes to how we should love others. So thankful for the conviction of the Holy Spirit when the fruit of my love is shriveled up. Blessed with the grace and mercy of God for those moments when I fall short. Grateful for gentle daily reminders prompting my heart to reflect His.

“Father, we miss so many opportunities to show Your love to our world. Help us to be doers of Your word and agents of Your love rather than just receivers of Your love.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life