Fruit of the Spirit 17 (Love is not provoked)


In today's article, my focus rests on the profound statement, "Love is not provoked" (1 Corinthians 13:5).

To be provoked implies irritation and anger, emotions that external circumstances can evoke. It involves a response from within us, shaped by various influences. Often, provoked reactions stem from handing over our emotional control to external forces.

This lack of emotional restraint leads to consistent irritation and retaliation due to the absence of a stabilizing force within us. Our emotions become vulnerable to triggers, causing us to react impulsively. What we truly need is an inner anchor, a binding force that prevents us from succumbing to the destructive path of Cain.

In 2 Corinthians 5:14, the Bible emphasizes the power of Christ's Love that constrains us.

The binding force that can secure our emotions is the Love of God. This force enables us to remain serene and joyful even in the face of adversity. It transforms our inclination towards hatred into a genuine exhibition of love.

Understanding the profound love bestowed upon us by the Lord is crucial. Otherwise, our emotions will persistently be manipulated by external forces. The provocations Paul refers to in 1 Corinthians 13:5 pertain to personal offenses that fuel resentment. So, how should love respond?

Love doesn't give in to anger toward others. It doesn't resort to retaliation or self-defense. As I’ve reiterated in previous articles, true love embodies selflessness and positions Jesus at the core of everything.

Ephesians 4:26 delivers a crucial message that we should ponder:
“Don’t let the passion of your emotions lead you to sin! Don’t let anger control you or be fuel for revenge, not for even a day.” (Ephesians 4:26 TPT)

Some have interpreted “don't let the sun go down on your anger” to mean it's acceptable to be angry as long as it doesn't linger overnight. However, I beg to differ. Paul isn't instructing us to become angry; human nature tends to evoke anger naturally. Yet, if God's love isn't our anchor, this natural inclination can lead us astray.

Moreover, it's improbable that Paul would encourage anger, considering his numerous references to "being angry against your neighbor" as a work of the flesh. This interpretation doesn't align with the broader context.

Paul is highlighting how and where to direct our anger. There's a natural aversion within our emotions, seemingly designed to protect us from anything opposing God's will.

This emotional response shouldn't be directed toward someone God calls us to reconcile with. Instead, it should be channeled against the devil and his malevolent activities.
When confronted with the devil's deeds, my language changes, and I address him with strong words. I intend to stand up against the devil's actions, not to attack fellow humans.

The tendency to condone the devil's actions arises from our misdirected anger. We must discern that human actions stem from sin, the devil's influence, or the fallen world. Instead of being provoked by fellow humans, let compassion guide us as we stand against the devil's activities within them.

This shift in perspective leads us to intercede for those who harbor hatred against us. Recognizing the force that seeks to ensnare them draws us into prayer and compassion.

In the next week, we'll explore the example set by Christ in navigating these emotional complexities.

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