It’s easy to love people who are kind, thoughtful, and like us. But what about those who frustrate us, disagree with us, or even mistreat us? Jesus doesn’t lower the standard—He raises it.
The Command to Love
Matthew 22:39 (WEB): “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”Jesus connects love for God with love for people. If we love Him, it will show in how we treat others—even difficult others.
John 13:34–35 (WEB): “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, just as I have loved you. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”Our love for others is a visible sign of our connection to Jesus.
Who Is My Neighbor?
Luke 10:36–37 (WEB): “Which of these three do you think seemed to be a neighbor to him who fell among the robbers?” He said, “He who showed mercy on him.” Then Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.”In the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus expands the definition of ‘neighbor.’ It’s not just those who are convenient to love—it’s whoever God puts in our path.
Love Beyond Feelings
1 Corinthians 13:4–5 (WEB): “Love is patient and is kind. Love doesn’t envy. Love doesn’t brag, is not proud, doesn’t behave itself inappropriately, doesn’t seek its own way, is not provoked, takes no account of evil.”Biblical love is action, not just emotion. It chooses patience, kindness, and humility—even when feelings lag behind.
Romans 12:20 (WEB): “If your enemy is hungry, feed him. If he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in doing so, you will heap coals of fire on his head.”Love can look like meeting real needs, even for those who oppose us. Such radical love disarms hostility and reflects Christ.
Practical Ways to Love When It’s Hard
1. Pray first: Ask God to soften your heart toward the person (Matthew 5:44).
2. Speak gently: Replace harsh words with a kind answer (Proverbs 15:1).
3. Look for small acts: Serve or encourage in practical ways, even if unnoticed.
4. Remember God’s love: The more we grasp how He loves us, the freer we are to love others.
A Short Prayer
Father, loving others isn’t always easy for me. Teach me to see people the way You see them. Fill me with Your Spirit so I can love—even when it’s hard. Amen.