Fruit of the Spirit: LOVE

The Fruit of the Spirit is a great series to learn with kids and I'm excited to dive into this with you and your families. Each week we will study a different aspect of the Fruit of the Spirit, starting with love. Before jumping into this week's lesson, based on 1 John 3: 16-20, spend some time discussing the Fruit of the Spirit found in Galatians 5:16-25 with your family.

It can be easy for children to think of the Fruit of the Spirit as a checklist on "how to be a good Christian" but this misses the point because it is the Holy Spirit that produces good fruit in our lives. What kids need to know is that when we invite Jesus in our hearts, He gives us the Holy Spirit who helps us to follow, obey and love. The Fruit of the Spirit is a reflection of God working in our hearts. As we spend time in prayer, worship, fellowship and Bible Study, the Holy Spirit will transform us to be more like Jesus!

For a deeper dive, discuss the tension between our sinful nature and God's desire for our lives. Paul talks about this in verses 16 and 17 and it might be helpful for older kids to understand that this is (and will be) an ongoing struggle. Encourage them to trust that even when they struggle, God is working in their hearts.

Resources:
1. In addition to discussion questions and prayer, the ResKids Gazette also has the recipe for our Tasty Tuesday Strawberry and Yogurt popsicles! 
2. This video of The Fruit of the Spirit from Lifeway Kids does a great job of explaining the Fruit of the Spirit to kids. 
3. If you're looking for a summer devotion or book to read with your kids, I like Love Does for Kids by Bob Goff. It includes 46 short stories of love in action!