We are called to love God and love others as ourselves (Matthew 22:37-39), and by our love all men will know that we are His disciples (John 13:35), and we are to love our enemies (Matthew 5:44), but sometimes it’s pretty difficult to do all this. Isn’t it great that God doesn’t leave us to do it on our own? He wants to live through us (Galatians 2:20).
Quotes:
Our love to God is measured by our everyday fellowship with others and the love it displays. — Andrew Murray
There is more hunger for love and appreciation in this world than for bread. — Mother Teresa
Am I not destroying my enemies when I make friends of them? — Abraham Lincoln
Top 10 Ways to Love When It’s Hard:
- Pray regularly for that person, even if he feels like an enemy.
- Look for practical ways to serve him, even if he doesn’t know.
- Be available; time is the most precious gift you can offer.
- Take opportunities to honor and speak well of that one.
- Include him, when appropriate, in special activities.
- Sometimes a hug or brief touch can communicate what words cannot.
- Take the risk to share your heart with that person; be the real you.
- If possible, worship or pray together or in a small group.
- Journal your desire for God’s good in his life.
- Thank God for changing your thoughts about that person.