My sister bought my son a nightly devotional book this past Christmas and most of the time it seems like God is using it for me instead of my son. I'm sure he is benefiting from it as well but it's crazy how many nights I'm reading it to him and the message seems made for me. Last night was about how to love those that are hard to love.
"You have heard it said , "Love your neighbor and hate your enemy." But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:43-45 NIV
I recently had an experience with someone fairly close to me that was flat out rude and ridiculous given the circumstances. But then again this person has always been like this, serving out backhanded compliments and just an overall attitude that nothing we do will ever be good enough. It's getting harder and harder not to blow up at this person and just let it go. I was even contemplating what I could say the nest time I saw them. Thankfully though, I let off some steam to my Mom and then came this timely devotional.
Truth is we probably all have someone in our lives that's a little hard to love, and sometimes that may be an understatement! God was gracious enough to remind me that the best way to deal with these people is to forgive them as fast as you can, move on, and pray for them. Always pray for them. This is a lot harder for me than it sounds but I will try Lord. I will always try.
The Prayer
Heavenly Father, make me a kind person even to those who don't treat me kindly. Let me forgive others, just as You have forgiven me. Amen.
So simple, but so badly needed.
wow, so true. It can be so freeing to let go of hang ups or grudges although it can be so difficult to do!
ReplyDeleteI love the sound of this book....children often are the means of re-teaching us how to have faith! Its beautiful:)
Oh I need to find this book! It sounds so great!
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