There are those who will steal, murder, lie and downright run you over if they don't like who you are or even what you look like. Evil ways have made a place in the world and have become an everyday occurrence.
I remember a day when I didn't like or even love anyone. I had much resentment and it almost killed me. I had a lot of growing up to do.
Growth was very painful to me. When I began to get through this process I realized that half of what I didn't like wasn't even worth the thought. Other issues took change on my part. The changes were well worth it and I am still growing.
I praise God that He has carried me and softened my heart over the years. Today I can tell you I love myself and those I meet. It doesn't always mean I like them but, I don't have to be mean and ugly. I can say an intercessory prayer and not go to bed with a guilty conscience over something I reacted to.
God has commanded us to love. He is not speaking of sex. He is simply giving us a plan to be happy. If you truly want to be happy and fulfilled, practice the greatest commandment.
Matthew 22:37-39 (NIV)
37Jesus replied: 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' 38This is the first and greatest commandment. 39And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'
This passage tells me a lot. I don't have to engage with evil but I can pray. I ask you, "Is it worth it to hate and carry resentment over things you can't control?" "Wouldn't life be better if we did our part so that we could be loved and not judged?" After all, the judging belongs to God.
Heavenly Father, I pray that you would forgive me for the ugly things I have done, thought or said. I ask Lord that you shine through me that I may show love to all those I come into contact with. Let your light shine through me. In Jesus precious name, Amen.
