Love the Unlovely
By, Toni Smothers
Scripture Reading for the day: Luke 6:27-38
click here for the scripture
Scripture Quote: “A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?” Luke 6:45-46 (NIV)
Obeying Jesus’ command to love those who behave in a less than desirable way, can often be difficult. Our friends are usually like-minded Christians who don’t often challenge our ability to be gracious. It’s easy to be kind to those who appreciate our efforts done for their benefit.
But consider how well you shine in comparison to our Lord, Jesus – Now, that may just change your perspective on the subject. Jesus loved His accosters, despite their brutal actions. While he was being tortured and mocked, He prayed for those responsible, asking God to forgive them.
Jesus told His disciples, and anyone who would listen, to do good even to those who hate you. And if someone mistreats you, pray for them. So, even if it is the hardest thing you’ve ever done, do it anyway because God is pleased with those who obey God’s Word. The Christian life is all about change and loving every person is part of the deal.
Today’s meditation: If our heart’s desire is to know Jesus
and emulate Him, pray for His help loving even your enemy.
Memory Verse: “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Mat 5:44 (NIV)
By, Toni Smothers
Scripture Reading for the day: Luke 6:27-38
click here for the scripture
Scripture Quote: “A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?” Luke 6:45-46 (NIV)
Obeying Jesus’ command to love those who behave in a less than desirable way, can often be difficult. Our friends are usually like-minded Christians who don’t often challenge our ability to be gracious. It’s easy to be kind to those who appreciate our efforts done for their benefit.
But consider how well you shine in comparison to our Lord, Jesus – Now, that may just change your perspective on the subject. Jesus loved His accosters, despite their brutal actions. While he was being tortured and mocked, He prayed for those responsible, asking God to forgive them.
Jesus told His disciples, and anyone who would listen, to do good even to those who hate you. And if someone mistreats you, pray for them. So, even if it is the hardest thing you’ve ever done, do it anyway because God is pleased with those who obey God’s Word. The Christian life is all about change and loving every person is part of the deal.
Today’s meditation: If our heart’s desire is to know Jesus
and emulate Him, pray for His help loving even your enemy.
Memory Verse: “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Mat 5:44 (NIV)
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