Make Sure Your Actions Are Heartfelt
The phrase “fake it ‘til you make it” does not apply when it comes to how we treat others. If you don’t feel it in your heart, that might be a sign that you have some issues that you need to work on. If you don’t truly love someone, it will eventually show in the ways described in Galatians 5:20-21, “hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy.” I’ve found the best way to cultivate my love for others is by deepening my relationship with God. As I walk in the Spirit, I naturally begin exhibiting the fruit of the Spirit.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.” Galatians 5:22-26 NIV
“Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.” Romans 12:9-10 ESV
“Let all that you do be done in love.” 1 Corinthians 16:14 ESV
“The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:6-7
“If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal.” 1 Corinthians 13:1 ESV
“Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” 1 John 3:18 NIV
When you find yourself having trouble getting along with others, whatever the reasons may be, do not allow it to cause you to stumble. Instead, give it to God by taking it to Him in prayer. Entrusting your relationships to God is the best thing you can do to help you treat others in a manner that glorifies God.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV
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