“Be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love.”
— Ephesians 4:2 (NLT)
Kelsey heard an inspiring sermon about loving others the way Jesus loved her. All aglow with warm feelings, she was determined to show God’s love to each person she met. Before the day was over, she realized she didn’t always want to love others. She loved helping people who were nice to her, like her mom and older sister. It irritated her to be gentle or humble with her older brother, who thought he ruled the world and everyone in it. She was patient with her elderly neighbor. But tolerating her best friend’s bad memory when she forgot to pick up Kelsey for the movie was something else. Slowly it dawned on Kelsey that we are told to love others — period. Having warm, fuzzy feelings has nothing to do with it.
What are some actions you can take to love others better? For one thing, don’t give up on people when they mess up. Make allowances instead. Also, come alongside people in trouble and help them through it. Everyone has a crisis from time to time. A loving person helps shoulder the load until the crisis passes. Remember how much God loves you — then share that love with others.
More To Explore: Romans 15:1
Girl Talk: Is there anyone whose behavior is irritating you right now? How can you show love to that individual instead of impatience?
God Talk: “Lord, I know I need to love everyone, but I’m having a hard time with . Please give me the right words as I try to show this person love. Thank you. Amen.”
From Shine On, Girl! by Kristi Holl