LOVING THE UNLOVEABLE
“GOD IS LOVE” I JOHN 4:8
The upcoming month of February conjures up thoughts of “love” for many people. There are constant reminders of Valentine’s Day in stores, aisles lined with red roses, Russell Stover chocolates and boxes of sweetheart candies. As a child in elementary school I remember passing out “I Love You” cards to everyone in the class, even to those I didn’t like so well.
Love, what is it? The word love is so freely used today – you hear “love ya” as a way to end a conversation. “Pass the love” is one way a church uses to welcome visitors. And of course couples often declare their “love” for one another but in some instances it’s a strong case of lust.
“God is love.” (I John 4:8.) In the Bible the word “love” is mentioned over 300 times showing how significant love is. Jesus is our ultimate example of love, commending His great love toward us by dying for us. He loved us even though we were unlovable, what a sacrifice.
If we’re striving to be like Jesus, we are to love EVERYONE. That could be a hard saying for some. But if we’re honest, it’s not always easy to love one another, sometimes personalities clash, there could be mannerisms or behaviors we dislike. Or as foolish as it might sound, there are some people you may not like or love and don’t know why.
The Word of God commands us to love – regardless. The scripture states we are to love our neighbors as ourselves. It tells us to do good to those that despitefully use us. We are to bless and pray for those that curse us. We are even told to love our enemies.
For those who don’t have a relationship with the Lord, loving the unlovable is impossible. And even us as Christians, loving the unlovable is not always easy. It’s a process. But the Lord has never asked of us anything we can’t do. He tells us that we can do ALL THINGS through him for He will strengthen us. Through prayer and fasting and seeking the Lord with a sincere heart. ,loving the unloveable will become easier. The Lord will change us –not them. He’ll change our heart, our mind, and our spirit if we are willing and submit to Him.
Paula McClellon
