Often, people shy away from being kind to others because they have been previously hurt. For some, they were kind to people who took advantage of them; whereas, some people equate kindness with weakness; and where some people think that kindness is being fake. Whatever your initial thoughts are in regards to kindness, showing kindness is a byproduct of walking with Christ. If you are filled with the Holy Spirit, kindness will flow from you. In fact, it is proof of His kindness working in your life. In various ways, I have had people take advantage of my kindness. Because of this, I built a … [Read more...]

The King James Version of the Bible lists longsuffering as an aspect of the Fruit of the Spirit. The English Standard version calls it forbearance; whereas, several other versions of the Bible call it patience. Regardless of which version of the Bible you read, it is clear that those walking in the Spirit are to forbear one another in love (Ephesians 4:1-3), to show patience to those in the world as well as to the body of Christ. What does longsuffering (i.e., patience) really look like? The word “longsuffering” in the Greek is makrothumia, meaning “forbearance” or “fortitude.” This same word … [Read more...]

When I think about peace, the first place that comes to mind is the home across the street from the home in which I grew up. When I was growing up, I spent countless hours at Miss Betty's house. Whether or not she had aromatic candles burning, her home always had a soothing fragrance. It was not uncommon for me to go visit her – and then fall asleep on her couch. Once, I even fell asleep in the middle of a conversation with her. She let me sleep and went about her business.  There was always the cozy feeling of a fireplace and a good book in her home – even in the middle of summer with the sun … [Read more...]

Joy is not the same as happiness. Happiness comes as a result of pleasant circumstances. We all know at least one couple who were beaming with happiness on their wedding day and then became angry, bitter, and filed for divorce a few years later. Their happiness faded when their circumstances changed. Happiness shows on the faces of college graduates as they walk across the stage, but chances are those happy smiles will fade as they take on the stresses and responsibilities of their new occupation, family, and lives. Joy is not based on circumstances. Joy is not dependent on external stimuli. … [Read more...]

Ahhhh… love. Is there anything like it? The fluttery feeling that pumps into your stomach, along with the lightheaded glee that fills your being when you are with the one you love. Unfortunately… those feelings are not love. They may be an occasional byproduct of love – and there is certainly nothing wrong with having those feelings – but true, God-centered love is a decision that requires selfless and honest behavior. Over the next couple of weeks, we'll be writing about the Fruit of the Spirit and how the manifestation of this fruit is important to your relationship…. Love is the first … [Read more...]