Matthew 13:12 For to the one who has, more will be given, and he will have an abundance, but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.
The seeds of love are in our hearts as deposits. These seeds germinate when we discipline ourselves to love the unlovable and pray for those who despitefully use us. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you (Matthew 5:44).
Time and again, people we trust would betray us and misuse our love. When we are wounded and hurt rather than harbouring anger/bitterness, (unresolved anger turns into bitterness), we must do what Jesus did.
Jesus prayed for those who mocked, flogged, falsely accused and crucified Him on the cross. The response of Jesus to their ruthlessness and brutality was, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34). Praying for those who hurt us fosters love but animosity would breed bitterness. Bitterness is like pouring gasoline on the seeds of love but praying over the offender waters the seeds of love.
Jesus went the extra mile to even heal the servant of the High Priest, Malchus, while He was being betrayed and arrested. Simon Peter had a sword. He drew it, attacked the chief priest’s servant, and cut off the servant’s right ear (Luke 18:10). Peter retaliated in anger but Jesus responded in love.
Grow Love:
1. Unassuming Love: Pretentious love is not love at all. Such love will wither and disappear when tested. There must not be any strings attached in the expression of love.
2. Unconditional Love: True love gives without expectations. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud (1 Corinthians 13:4).
3. Undeserving Love: We have received undeserving love from our Saviour. Praying for those who offend, hurt and betray us and to those who don’t deserve our love is the true expression of genuine love.
“Love multiplies when it is divided, “the more you give, the more you get”.
Prayer waters the seeds of love.
Prayer: Loving Saviour, give me your heart to pray for those who hurt me and misuse me to nurture genuine love in my heart. Amen.
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