I love that concept - learning to step into love a bit better, maybe with more wisdom. In Denver last year at a marriage conference I heard a speaker say that research is being done on happiness levels and that so far it appears the greatest happiness in life comes not from being loved well but from loving another really, really well. Now I ask you, doesn't that sound just like God to wire us like that??? The idea began with observing new mothers loving their babies - with no return yet - just learning to love well.
On Tuesday mornings, I meet with a small group of mothers to study the Word. We are currently in Philippians. I was awe-struck last week by the words in chapter 1, verses 9-11, from the Message:
So this is my prayer: that your love will flourish and that you will not only love much but well. Learn to love appropriately. You need to use your head and test your feelings so that your love is sincere and intelligent, not sentimental gush. Live a lover's life, circumspect and exemplary, a life Jesus will be proud of: bountiful in fruits from the soul, making Jesus Christ attractive to all, getting everyone involved in the glory and praise of God.
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5 comments:
Great words! I love learning from YOU -- and learning to love would be the noblest goal of all. I think we -- okay, I KNOW I forget that we need to be lifelong students of how to love. It's a daily laying down of selfish wants and desires and constant honing. Thanks for the reminder.
I struggle with how to love certain people! I love, but do I love the right way? I think of Haleigh immediately. We are like water and oil - probablly because we are so much alike - ironically! I love her with all of my being, but do I love her appropriately? Do I love her the way I want to love her, or do I love her the way she needs to be loved? Can I show her love the same way that I show it to my other kids, or do they all need to be loved differently? I have been asking myself that since last Tuesday when we had our girls night, and I have been praying for God to show me how to love her. Being a mom is not easy, and I need God's wisdom when raising three VERY DIFFERENT CHILDREN!!!!
Thanks for those words. Focusing on loving others instead of receiving love is an area I need to work at.
You don't know me, but I attend Highland Church of Christ in Abilene. I just wanted you to know that I copied your prayer down at the end of this post to keep forever! What powerful words and an even more powerful concept! Be blessed. Lauren C.
Beverly,
I was so sorry to hear about your Dad's passing. We heard about it from a lady that my daughter works with. We were shocked to hear of his passing. We would like to extend out deepest sympathies to Aunt Bobbie and to the rest of your family. My Dad was very distraught that he was unaware of Uncle Billy’s death. We would have been there had we known. Please let us know if there is anything we can do.
Sandra
SandraLee@campbellgroup.com
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