“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness” (Gal 5:22).
Literally, the word rendered faithfulness here (pistis) can be used interchangeably with the term faith (believing) depending on context. In God’s scheme of things, love and faith are inseparable. You can’t love someone and be unfaithful to him or her. I know that’s a radical statement, but it is honest to Scripture. We cannot betray our friends, spouse, family or leaders and still claim to love them! Loyalty and love are inseparable. In the same vein, “Love…never stops believing, never stops hoping, never gives up” (1 Cor. 13:7). As a pastor I know the value of this principle. As we shepherd people at various stages of spiritual growth and victory, we have to keep trusting God for the eventual transformation of every disciple under our watch regardless of the battles they may experience. The love of God constrains me to hope against hope and never give up on anybody. I’m glad to say that by the grace of God the rewards are worth it. What a joy it has been to witness the transformation of hardcore sinners to genuine saints of God! My dear friend, don’t give up on yourself and on others. That’s what faithful love does.
Pastor Josh