We talk about love all the time, but most of what we call love is actually about getting, not giving. Real love—the kind that changes people—isn’t based on feelings, but on sacrifice.
Love is the first trait listed in the fruit of the Spirit found in Galatians 5:22–23. That’s not just a coincidence—it’s a foundation. Everything else that God grows in us is shaped by this kind of love. And here’s the key: this love doesn’t come naturally. It’s the Holy Spirit who produces it in us.
We can’t fake the kind of love God calls us to. It’s deeper than emotion, stronger than convenience, and more lasting than mere affection. It’s not just something we feel—it’s something we do.
What’s the Opposite?
The enemy of love isn’t hate—it’s selfishness.
Selfishness makes everything about you. It shows up in relationships where you expect to be served but rarely serve in return. It hides behind polite excuses like “I’m just protecting my time” or “I need to focus on me right now.” It pulls back when there’s nothing to gain.
But the love the Spirit cultivates says: Even if I get nothing in return, I’ll still give. Even if it’s inconvenient, I’ll still show up. Even if it’s hard, I’ll still care.
If your version of love never costs you anything, it might not be Spirit-grown love at all.
Love That Serves, Not Just Says
Jesus didn’t just talk about love—He demonstrated it. In John 13, knowing His betrayal and crucifixion were just hours away, Jesus knelt to wash His disciples’ feet. No spotlight. No applause. Just quiet service.
That’s the model. Real love humbles itself. It doesn’t wait to be noticed or repaid. It chooses to serve when it would be easier to walk away.
And the Spirit lives in every believer. That means this kind of love is not only possible—it’s expected.
How to Know You’re Growing in Love
You don’t measure love by how often you say the word—you measure it by how you treat people when no one’s looking.
Ask yourself:
- Do I give without needing recognition?
- Do I stay when it would be easier to walk away?
- Do I respond with grace even when someone doesn’t deserve it?
If so, the Spirit is producing something powerful in you.
One Step Today
Here’s one practical question to take with you today:
“Who can I serve today who can’t do anything for me in return?”
That kind of love may not go viral, but it will go deep. And it always points people to Jesus—the One who loved us first.
