Love One Another

Have you ever had one of those days? Weeks? Years?

You know the kind – overwhelmed by life, responsibilities or heartbreak. Sometimes, you just want to curl up and close out the world and ignore it all. Sometimes, you just don’t know how you’ll get through the day.

And then, you get a text from a friend, “Wanna meet up?” “I’m praying for you.” Or “I have to tell you the funniest thing!”

Sometimes, the simplest thing can lift you out of a funk or at least prop you up for a bit.

“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” Romans 12:10

According to Google, the phrase “love one another” is used 11-13 times in the New Testament, depending on which version you’re reading. And the phrase “one another” which implies being there for each other, is used about 100 times. Apparently, God feels this is very important and that we need to be reminded – a lot!

Author and pastor Francis Chan said, “God's definition of what matters is pretty straightforward. He measures our lives by how we love.”

So, HOW do we show love for one another?

Like I said before, sometimes it can be as simple as to text someone when they come to mind. Sometimes it might require a bit more effort. The important thing is to be mindful that on any given day, you are likely to cross paths with someone that needs a little extra love or encouragement.

Make it part of your normal routine to look for ways to bless others. When you get up in the mornings, ask God to show you how to bless someone that day. Maybe it’s a quick text to say, "Hi!" or share a verse. Maybe it’s making time for a cup of coffee with someone. Maybe it’s paying for the car behind you in the drive through. Or whatever! Allow God to whisper to you the “who” and the “what” and follow through.

Recently I heard comedian, Jeff Foxworthy say that once he was talking with Truett Cathy, founder of ChickFilA. Mr Cathy said to him, "Do you know how to tell if somebody needs encouragement? If they're breathing. Everybody needs encouragement and it doesn't cost you a dime to give it to them."

Keep your eyes and ears open. Tell that friend that you like her new shirt. Tell that harried mom at the store that she’s doing a great job. Offer to help out where you can. You never know how much a simple conversation or act can mean to someone else.

Now it’s your turn. Comment below your ideas to love on another. Or share a story of a time you were blessed unexpectedly.

“And may the Lord make your love for one another and for all people grow and overflow, just as our love for you overflows.” 1 Thessalonians 3:12

 

Mandy Hood

Mandy Hood is co-founder of The Connection and serves there in many capacities. She authored the book, “Let’s Get Together: The story of a unique women’s ministry.”  It tells the story of how The Connection began.

Mandy and her husband have been married for 45 years. Together, they enjoy camping and traveling. They have the goal of visiting all 50 states and 10 Canadian provinces.