Page 74 - Radical Love by Linda Robinson

SESSION 3 : Song of Songs Chapter 1:3-8 (NKJV)

prevails, gentleness of heart, and strength of spirit. Never set the law

above these qualities, for they are meant to be limitless.” (Galatians
5:22–23 PT)

My heart for the Church of Jesus Christ is that we would be those who
pursue character before giftings.

To go back to the text—notice how it says that the step-brothers were

angry with the Shulamite. They forced her to tend their vineyards. We
need to guard ourselves from the spirit of control and manipulation.

The religious and legalistic spirit will always try to attack those who
are free. If this happens to us, we must do what Abraham did when

Ishmael was attacking Isaac and “…Get rid of the slave woman and her

son…” (Galatians 4:30, NIV).

Obviously, we act out of love, but we must ask God whether we are to

distance ourselves from those who try to pressure us into doing things
that we know God is not asking us to do. We need to stand firm, despite

the misunderstandings and persecution that sometimes come from

following God rather than man, and remain steadfast.

This really is a serious matter for consideration because, as long as we

are under the influence of such people, our own spiritual development
is being hindered. The Shulamite is now lamenting the fact that she has

not pursued her own walk with the Lord and realizes how important it
is to value and guard the relationship with Him—the One we become

like as we behold His face. Her countenance has suffered as a result of

60