How can we share the love "poured into our hearts" with others? Love Poured In: Romans 5:5 at a Glance “Hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” (Romans 5:5) • The verb “poured” pictures an abundant, overflowing gift. • The Holy Spirit is the channel; His indwelling makes the love of God a present reality, not a distant theory. • Because God supplies the love, believers never run dry; we share from an endless source, not personal reserves. Receiving Before Giving • Abiding in Christ keeps the flow open (John 15:4-5). • Daily surrender to the Spirit fills us “to all the fullness of God” (Ephesians 3:17-19). • Regular time in Scripture renews our minds so our love aligns with truth (Romans 12:2). Four Simple Pathways to Share His Love 1. Caring Words – Speak truth seasoned with grace (Ephesians 4:15). – Offer encouragement that builds up (1 Thessalonians 5:11). 2. Visible Service – “Through love serve one another” (Galatians 5:13). – Meet practical needs; love is “in deed and in truth” (1 John 3:18). 3. Generous Giving – God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7). – Share resources so none in the body lacks (Acts 4:34-35). 4. Forgiveness and Grace – “Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (Colossians 3:13). – Mercy breaks cycles of hurt and showcases the gospel (Ephesians 4:32). Spirit-Empowered Attitudes • Fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control—puts God’s character on display (Galatians 5:22-23). • Humility counts others more significant (Philippians 2:3-4). • Persevering hope endures hardship without bitterness (Romans 12:12). Love on Mission • “For Christ’s love compels us” to be ambassadors of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:14-20). • Hospitality opens doors for the gospel (1 Peter 4:9). • Loving unity among believers shows the world we belong to Jesus (John 13:34-35). Everyday Practices • Pray for those who wrong you; bless instead of curse (Matthew 5:44). • Listen attentively; give people the gift of undivided attention (James 1:19). • Celebrate others’ successes; rejoice with those who rejoice (Romans 12:15). • Offer a timely meal, ride, or childcare; small deeds communicate large love. • Send Scripture-soaked notes of encouragement. A Life That Points Upward • Let love fuel good works so “others may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). • Love “never fails” (1 Corinthians 13:8); it outlasts every earthly gift and bears eternal fruit. • As God keeps pouring His love in, we keep pouring it out, showing the world the heart of the Savior who first loved us (1 John 4:19). |
    |