Page 339 - Radical Love by Linda Robinson_FEB2025
P. 339

SESSION 19



          Furthermore, when our hearts are sealed with Jesus, we will not fear or

          lose heart when the going gets tough. It is only when He covers and
          fills them that we can love the unlovely, pray for those who persecute

          us, and forgive those who hurt us. Unless Jesus—who is Love—seals
          our hearts, we will lose hope, succumb to disappointment, and become

          discouraged.


          In Matthew 24:12–13 (NIV), it says:

          “Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold,

          but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.”

          I fervently believe that all of us, regardless of where we are, need to

          “buy” more of the oil of His presence if we are to stand strong through
          the ever-increasing tribulations of life. The Holy Spirit is wooing us

          into the greatest depth of intimacy ever experienced up until now—

          because He knows what lies ahead.

          The reason I wrote the word “buy” is that although this oil is free, it

          costs. It means that we have to give God the number one priority in our
          lives. It will take up more of our time. Perhaps it will even require some

          adjustments in the way we live and minister. But how can we grow

          strong and be overcoming sons of God if we do not make it our primary
          goal to feed and drink from the wellspring of life?


          Former Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr. Rowan Williams, wrote these
          words, which express very accurately the point I am trying to make

          here—even though he is not commenting on the Song of Songs:


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