by Dr. Charles Stanley
Monday February 13, 2006
The Power of Love
Luke 15:11-32
The New Testament uses three Greek words to express love — eros (physical intimacy), philia (friendship), and agape (the love produced in us by the Holy Spirit) (Galatians 5:22). Our Father cares for us with agape love. He sacrificed His Son Jesus to bring us into a right relationship with Him (1 John 4:10).
We are demonstrating agape love when we:
• Respond calmly to difficulties. To the Prodigal Son’s untimely demand for his share of the inheritance, the father didn’t reply with angry words about ungrateful children. Though the boy’s attitude must have caused pain, the man held his tongue and did not retaliate. In calmness, he could think more clearly and choose to love (1 Corinthians 13:5).
• Sacrifice without complaint. The father, quietly and without complaint, gave the legacy as requested. Although he knew his son was committed to a ruinous course, he directed his efforts towards preserving their relationship. In so doing, he chose the way of love.
• Wait Patiently. Out of deep affection, the father allowed his son to leave and to stay away. What heartache he must have had; yet he remained hopeful. He waited for the boy to recognize that sin cannot deliver what it has promised. Waiting is feasible only through the power of agape love (1 Corinthians 13:4).
The Holy Spirit’s work in our life empowers us to show selfless and sacrificial devotion to the development of another person. In that way, we become people who respond calmly, uncomplainingly, and patiently. Which kind of emotion do you offer to others — human or divine?
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