Love is willing to forge unity more than having to be right.
Within the dynamics of family life we don’t always agree on everything. And the good news is, that’s okay.
A few days ago my husband told me he didn’t like our backyard hose. He wanted a sturdier one to water the potted plants, or add water to our pond feature. As for me, I’m pleased with the lighter weight hose we bought last year. This one falls limp when the water is off, effortlessly coils up, and the nozzle is built in. For a while this seemed like a big impasse. But, after taking time to consider the bigger picture, we found a compromise. Two hoses now sit side-by-side. A simple dual faucet adapter makes it possible to run water to both. He can use the hose that suits him and so can I. Best of all, the day wasn’t ruined by an argument filled with stinky attitudes.
Differences are simply personal preferences. God designed us to be different. It’s a good thing we aren’t all alike. Life would be rather boring. By listening and finding solutions that honor each other, we establish healthy relationships. And healthy relationships lead to harmony.
Love is honest.
Love does not manipulate others to get its own way. Lying lips are words that deceive or betray. 1 Corinthians 13:1-8 is a passage of Scripture where we find love defined. Please take time to read it and take it to heart. A boiled down synopsis would be: Love always protects, always perseveres, always trusts, does not dishonor others, is not easily angered, is not self-seeking. Love always hopes and love never fails.
Love is daily on display.
Try to envision our lives in the same way as we’d read a newspaper headline. Realize what we say and do is on display. Others observe and draw conclusions. Will they figure out we are loving or abrasive? Will they feel safe in our presence, or want to run?
Because God is love, and we are made in His image, our purpose is to express His heart. Within our being is an imbedded desire to be loved. And to give love. When practiced regularly, it becomes our go-to response. But if unconditional love is not our response, or is missing completely, people will get a very different vibe about who we are. Perhaps we should all examine our capacity to love. Are we able to receive the love God defines? Does loving others as God desires us to come naturally? If not, it’s time to figure out why and implement change.
Love allows.
Love allows for others to disagree, or walk away, but keeps the door open for future negotiations. Caring love believes in second chances and extends a hand of mercy.
We live in a world where bad, awful wrongs are done against others. And we question why. Instead, please realize God hates evil. We should hate it, too. Blaming God isn’t going to help. Instead, can we see the bad things as Satan’s doing and bring them to God in prayer? He’s our source of hope and help.
Why is love willing?
There’s only one reason. It’s because the love of Christ resides in a believer’s heart. Christ’s love makes it possible for us to spill His favor into the lives of others, even those who don’t deserve it.
Prayer:
Lord, grant us willing spirits to love beyond our emotions and sense of fairness. Create in us hearts shaped by Jesus’ love. We refuse to let Satan win and want what you want for us. Fill our hearts to overflowing with divine love from Your blessing tree. Amen
Coaches Corner:
The ability to willingly love despite what others dish out isn’t easy. If you struggle with this, take heart. A life coach can help you find actionable steps to take. I’d be honored to come alongside you. The first 30 minute online session is always free. Contact me at https://www.rebuildingfamilies.net/life-coach/.
*Photo by Mohammad-met on Unsplash
