In a world that often seems quick to encourage division over differing opinions, why not try something different? Let’s choose love instead.
Sure, it’s challenging – really challenging sometimes. Not everyone will return the love we offer. We’ve all crossed paths with someone who just doesn’t seem to click with us for no apparent reason. It’s part of life. We’ve all felt the sting of rejection or been overlooked and undervalued. You might encounter some of these tricky personalities today – whether they’re colleagues, family members, or friends with varying perspectives. And then there are those whose views on politics, religion, or culture clash with yours, sparking tension every time their opinions pop up in your feed.
It’s true; people aren’t always easy to love. We naturally seek out our comfort zones – friends who understand us, conversations that are filled with laughter, and places where we feel appreciated.
Yet the Bible reminds us of the kind of love we’re called to. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 beautifully describes love as patient and kind, not keeping record of wrongs and always hoping. This kind of love doesn’t depend on feelings or ease – it’s a deliberate choice to extend grace, even when it’s hard.
Those comforting relationships are great, aren’t they? They lift our spirits, but they’re not meant to be where we stay all the time.
Venturing Outside Our Comfort Zones
Just like you, I love my comfort zone. But if we want to spread more love in the world, we need to take it beyond our usual circles. Sometimes that means extending patience and understanding to those at work or in family gatherings.
Being on this path means embracing kindness and active love, even toward those who might never return it. It’s about following a greater example—loving unconditionally, regardless of differences. Remember Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:44: “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” That’s the heart of real love – choosing to love even when it’s not easy.
Is it easy? Not at all. It requires strength beyond ourselves.
Over time, and through many lessons, we understand that we can’t rely solely on our own strength. We especially learn this when faced with disagreements or wounds caused by others.
We’re not meant to do this alone. Built for joyful reliance, we find our balance by depending on a rock-solid foundation – our Savior. As Romans 12:18 advises us: “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” That’s a tall order, but one worth striving for.
We seek guidance for the big questions, sure, but we need it just as much for the everyday challenges that life brings. Tough people and complex situations remind us just how much we need grace, wisdom, and guidance in those regular but tricky human moments.
Thinking it Through: Responding with Love
Sometimes, you might be right in your viewpoint or judgment. The facts might be on your side, but wisdom teaches us that being right isn’t a free pass for a poor attitude toward others.
What’s some practical advice? Let go of burdens, whether they involve hurt feelings or disputes. Take responsibility for any bad attitudes, even if you have to work at it repeatedly. Pause before responding; conveying truth without compassion often misses the point.
And remember, Jesus didn’t just talk about love – He modeled it perfectly. In Luke 6:31, we are told: “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” This simple principle can transform how we respond in difficult moments.
What if confrontation seems unavoidable? What if obvious wrongs demand correction? Truth has its importance, right?
Begin with a pause – pray, breathe, seek guidance. If silence is the guidance, embrace it. I always tell my kids that sometimes the best response is saying “nothing” or simply walking away from confrontation – like Proverbs 15:1 advises, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
If you do speak or act, lead with love. Approach situations with empathy and understanding. These values teach us not to retaliate with negativity but to counter it with kindness.
Are you praying for those who challenge you? Whether it’s a difficult boss, a hurtful family member, or someone with opposing views, praying for them can change everything.
Even when others seem far off base, remember our struggle is not against them as individuals but against division itself. When we view them with compassion and understanding, the strength to choose love becomes vividly clear.
Before reacting or posting, take a moment to sit quietly, reflect, and listen for guidance above the noise. By handing over your emotions, you might uncover fresh patience and new insights.
Growing patience, kindness, and self-control can transform potential conflicts into peaceful, loving interactions.
Interestingly, when we consistently choose love – even over hurt and disagreements – we find ourselves less controlled by past triggers. It’s not just about being right but about reflecting God’s goodness and grace in every situation.
Staying anchored in what truly feeds our soul – the love of Christ – allows us to face life’s challenges with confidence. We can honestly say, “I will love you anyway,” because that’s the example Jesus set for us. As 1 John 4:19 reminds us: “We love because he first loved us.”
And when we keep choosing love in those hard moments, others start to see the Savior in us. They witness not just what we say, but how we respond – gentle, forgiving, loving. That’s the kind of kingdom impact that truly changes the world.
So, are you ready? Let’s move forward with love – day after day, moment after moment.
Because at the end of the day, love is our greatest witness. It’s what sets us apart and invites others into the story of grace.
Let’s love anyway.
