Friday, March 9, 2012

Beloved, let us love one another...! - Chapter 45

"Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God ; and everyone who loves is born of Godand knows God. The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love." ~ 1John 4:7-8

In all honesty, can we say that we love each other in God? Can we really love those that persecutes us? Can we really love our enemies and not conjure up vengeance in our minds to retaliate? If we are suppose to be in Christ, we are suppose to love one another as Christ loves us!

If you have read my past entries, then you know that I have absolutely no qualms in being transparent. In fact, that's part of who I am. With that said, there are times when I have an extremely hard time loving those who have hurt me, used me, talk trash about me, etc. I find that there are times where it is hard to love folks who can't stand me! YES, I admit that I do struggle in this area! I constantly ask the Lord to help in this area so that HE can use me the way He wants to. As I intercede for people, even my enemies, sometimes I ask the Lord "You love me THAT MUCH and tolerated all of my foolishness that you died on the cross because you me?" Without hesitation, the Holy Spirit leads me to John 3:16 - "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life."

If Jesus loves us that much, then who am I not to love my brothers and sisters. I'm constantly reminded of the two commandments Jesus gave to His disciples - Love the Lord with all of your heart, mind and soul. Also, love your neighbors as yourselves! So, despite how I feel, what it looks like or how people treat me, I must learn to love everyone. It maybe a challenge, but nothing is impossible when it comes to the things of God!

Until next time....