Fruit of the Spirit: How to Grow in Love

Knowing what the elements of the Fruit of the Spirit are is not enough. We need to nurture them and grow in them. We need to do our part by practicing spiritual disciplines that we allow the Holy Spirit to work in us.

Jesus said, "You have heard that is was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect." (Matthew 5:43-48)

Notice that Jesus connects loving our enemies and those who persecute us with prayer in verse 44. I would suggest that one spiritual practice that will help us love is prayer. If you lack true love as described in I Corinthians 13 or if you have hateful feelings for someone, pray. Pray for those whom you need to love more. Pray for those who you do not love at all.