Loving Others When They Are Not Lovable

How many of us have experienced someone who was demanding, rude or hurtful? We all have right?! I would even bet each of us have been one of these at one time or another as well whether we admit it or not. We may have been frustrated about a situation and instead of getting our emotions under control we lashed out at our family members or friends when we shouldn't have.

So how do we love others when they are not lovable?

We continuously forgive them and love them anyway. Now this doesn't mean we excuse their behavior but this Bible passage shows us what we need to do.

Colossians 3:13 Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

When we recognize this negative behavior in ourselves God is giving us an opportunity to change how we treat others. Let's make sure we are listening to what God is putting on our hearts!

1 Peter 4:8

Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins. When we say things we regret, we need ask for forgiveness but most importantly, we need to forgive others when they do the same.

I read a Bible study where a Grandma was sharing her secret to a long marriage with her granddaughter who was about to get married. She said prior to getting married she listed 10 things that she would forgive & forget if her husband did them and the granddaughter asked what they were, she said she never wrote them down. But every time he did something wrong she would say to herself it's a good thing that was on the list and then she would forget about it. I thought that was great advice!!

Our challenge is to pay attention when God reveals our sin and humbly ask for forgiveness. Let's become a better representation of Jesus' love towards others.

1 Corinthians 13:4-8 Love is patient, love is kind. it does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.

Written by: Jill Theriault

Crossroads Coaching - @crossroadscoachingongodstime