Loving the Hard to Love
Scripture:
“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.”
— John 15:12 (NIV)
Encouraging Message:
Let’s be real—loving people isn’t always easy.
It’s one thing to love those who are kind, respectful, and easy to be around. But what about the ones who seem determined to test our peace?
I’ve had a neighbor for six years who hasn’t always been kind. There have been moments where I could’ve matched energy for energy—but I chose prayer instead. Why? Because I remind myself daily:
“I refuse to let anyone steal my Jesus.” 🙌🏾
This scripture isn’t a suggestion—it’s a command.
Jesus didn’t say “Love when it’s easy.” He said,
“Love as I have loved you.”
That’s bold. That’s sacrificial. That’s holy.
And if we’re honest, it’s also hard.
But here’s what I’ve come to understand:
When God places difficult people in our lives, it’s rarely just about them. It’s about what He’s trying to produce in us.
Patience. Compassion. Forgiveness. Humility.
Loving others doesn’t always mean staying close to toxic energy—but it does mean guarding our hearts from becoming like what hurt us.
A Sacred Shift:
Maybe the next time someone tests your love, you pause and pray:
“Lord, help me love them like You love me—flaws and all.”
That prayer has changed how I respond to those who challenge me. Not always immediately—but little by little, grace replaces offense, and I’m reminded that love is our greatest testimony.
Reflection:
Who in your life is challenging to love right now?
What would showing God’s love to them actually look like?
Journaling Prompt:
Write a prayer asking God for strength to love someone who has been difficult to love.
Be honest with Him about how you feel—and then surrender the situation fully to His hands.
Closing Prayer:
Lord, I thank You for loving me unconditionally—even when I’ve fallen short. Help me extend that same love to others, even when it’s hard. Remind me that love isn’t just an emotion—it’s obedience. Let my response be rooted in grace, not pride. And if loving from a distance is needed, let me do so with a heart that’s still full of You.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
#SacredWisdom #DailyDevotional #LoveLikeJesus #John1512 #GraceOverGrudges #FaithInAction #DifficultPeopleHolyGrowth #SitPrettyAndPray #JournalingWithJesus #HeartWork