This week we begin exploring the Fruit of the Spirit. We are starting with the foundational characteristic of LOVE. Let’s define the Fruit of the Spirit:
(1) The supernatural outcome of being filled with the Spirit(2) The living proof that the Spirit of God dwells in us
There is one (1) fruit (not ‘Fruits’) with different qualities.
Day 1, we look at EROS: Grasping Love – in Greek eros is a selfish love; it asks ‘what can I get for myself.’ “Eros is associated with sexual love. Unless sexual love is redeemed by the presence of God, it becomes possessive. It seeks to conquer and control” (Living Beyond…, Beth Moore).
Eros is the physical, sensual love between a husband and wife. Eros is a necessary part of a healthy marriage. Although this Greek term does not appear in the Bible, eros, or erotic love, is portrayed in the Old Testament book, The Song of Solomon. God is very clear in his Word. Sex outside of marriage is forbidden.
Eros is probably what most people mean when they announce with a smile, "I'm in love." This type of love covers everything from queasy stomachs and warm fuzzy feelings to strong sensual passion.
There are a couple of very interesting characteristics about eros. First, in order to exist eros is dependent upon the situation and circumstances. As long as a couple is enjoying a romantic situation, eros can thrive. But, as soon as hurtful words or actions appear, eros simply evaporates.
Second, eros is also held captive to each person's perception. For example, if someone perceives a particular quiet evening dinner with candles to be romantic, eros will thrive. However, passion becomes squashed for someone whenever he or she interprets the current situation to be undesirable. Eros thus grows strong and then wastes away based upon our perceptions.
Although eros at times might make us feel like we are on cloud nine, it cannot provide a reliable basis for building a deep and meaningful relationship since it is so fickle and dependent upon perception and circumstances. Because of such things as accidents, diseases, and the fact that someone can choose to doubt or despise you regardless of your actions, it is clear that we cannot determine how others will perceive us nor are we masters of our own circumstances. Although eros is exhilarating, this is not the Biblical word used for love.
Those of us, who are married, must keep the fire burning in our marriage. As stated in our study, we should ask God daily to help us stay thrilled at the touch of our husband. And we should ask God to help us grow more desirable of one another every single day.
No comments:
Post a Comment