One of the most misused and misunderstood word in our culture is the word "love". Ask a starry-eyed couple why they want to get married and they will probably say, "Because we are in love!!!" For most people think love is an emotion, how you feel about someone. But Biblical love is totally different.
Jesus said that we are to "love" our enemies. But how could Jesus command us to "feel" a certain way? Because Biblical love has nothing to do with our emotions.The love commanded here relates to both outward deeds and inward attitudes. It is doing what is in the best interest of that person. Romans 12:20 "...If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink"
That being said, then it is possible to love someone and not necessarily "like" that person. Their personality may clash with yours but that does not mean you do not love them. They may not be someone you would like take on your family vacation but you can still love them. Often (but not always) when you reach out in love and do something for a person, your emotions will change toward that person.
This is an amazing concept when it comes to forgiving others. When we forgive others, we are saying, "I no longer hold this against you. I set you free." When you truly forgive someone, you may or may not necessarily feel a certain way about that person.
How did God show love to this world? "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son..." His love for us caused Him to give. We should do likewise.
No comments:
Post a Comment