Living Water #549

LIVING WATER EPISODE 546 || 2ND DECEMBER, 2025

By Solomon Uwumbolibe Mensah

LOVE THAT HOLDS US TOGETHER

Scripture Reading: Galatians 5:14–15

“For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.”

Paul writes to the Galatians at a moment when their relationships are strained and their unity is under threat. The church that began in the Spirit is slowly drifting toward division, hostility, and confusion. In this atmosphere of tension, Paul brings the entire community back to a single foundational truth: the whole law is fulfilled in one command“, Love your neighbor as yourself.” Then he gives a sober warning: “If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.” This introduction sets the stage for understanding both the power of love and the devastating consequences of abandoning it.

1.     Love Fulfills God’s Heart

Paul reminds us that the entire law—everything God has ever asked of us—can be summed up in one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” This means love is not optional; it is the essence of our faith. When we love others the same way we naturally care for ourselves, we reflect the heart of God. True obedience flows not from rules, but from a heart transformed by love.

2.     Without Love, We Hurt Each Other

Paul warns that when love is missing, people begin to “bite and devour” one another. Harsh words, jealousy, unforgiveness, and pride slowly destroy relationships. The danger isn’t from outsiders—it’s from within. Homes, churches, and friendships collapse not because of external attacks but because love has been replaced by conflict. Where love is absent, destruction begins.

3.     The Spirit Empowers Us To Love

Loving others is not always easy, but the Holy Spirit gives us the strength to do it. When we walk in the Spirit, we become more patient, gentle, and forgiving. The Spirit softens our words, guides our reactions, and helps us choose unity over division. Love becomes our lifestyle when we let God lead our hearts daily.

Prayer

Lord, help me to walk in love today. Fill my heart with Your Spirit so that my words and actions reflect Your character. Protect my relationships from division and make me an instrument of peace and unity. In Jesus’ name, Amen.