Do I have to love and get along with those people that get on my nerves?
“Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: It is mine to avenge; I will repay, (God will take care of you when you are persecuted) says the Lord.”
On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:9-21)
God desires to place us on His “Potter’s Wheel,” and mold us into the image of Jesus through experiences, decisions, and choices. Unfortunately, it doesn’t happen instantly. It’s a process, a journey. And He’s not looking for perfection, but only asks for our willing heart. He will do the rest!
We can’t change ourselves or anyone else. Sadly, we spend much of our energy and emotions trying to make others fit into our mold. When we make the decision to surrender everything to God (including our stubborn will), He begins the molding process. For only God, our Heavenly Father, can truly change anyone! The more we become like Jesus, the happier our lives become. We not only learn to love and forgive ourselves, but He gives us a compassionate love and forgiveness for others. It’s a win/win! Jesus is our answer!
So what’s the hold up? Satan, the deceiver, lies to convince us we are worthless and that we should be mad and spiteful at others for hurting us. He doesn’t believe in forgiveness or helping others. Yes, the devil’s goal is to remove our focus off God and place it on ourselves, making our lives miserable!
God is love! He desires the very best for us! So whom will we believe? Will we believe God and His Word or the devil and his lies? We absolutely know the answer! Choosing to be more like Jesus is the best choice!
Only God, your Heavenly Father, can give you true love, true peace!
