We take for granted this ability God has given us to love and to be loved by others. I consider the scripture in John 3:16 that states "And God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” God loved us enough to give us His son and Jesus loved us to the extent that He gave us His life and the opportunity for Eternal life. Love is a gift given to us that we can then give to others freely, thus showing God and Jesus Christ our love for Them.
This past month there has been a significant amount of hate and conflict over social media and in the rioting. It has been sad to witness friends and family feel humiliated and hurt by unfeeling remarks of others. Love has left people's hearts and is something that is needed more than ever in society today. D&C 18:10 reminds us that "The worth of souls is great in the sight of God." Every human being is deserving of love and that is something everyone of us can give! To family, friends, and strangers.
I am grateful for the love I feel in my heart towards my dear family and friends. As I have tried my best to overlook hurt and simply love, I have found an abundance of the Holy Ghost fill my heart and I am given the capacity to love even more! As we love others- we invite God into our hearts and more joy into our life! Consider the most happiest memory in your life. I would assume that moment was one filled with love and peace. It is in our ability to cultivate a feeling of love in our hearts that can then bless the lives of those we touch.
Sometimes it is hard to love when we have been hurt, misunderstood, criticized, disappointed...It takes great strength of Character and maturity to love in spite of painful experiences. I would ask you to think of someone that could use more of your love that you might be withholding. The following are some ideas of how to show more love for them and develop more love for them.
1) Forgive them- easier said than done, but so worth it!
2)Serve them according to their love language
3) Pray for them
4) Fast for them
5) Look out for them- check up on them!
6) Go out of your way to make them happy.
7) Listen to them when they need an ear.
8) Remind them of their worth- compliment them.
9) Lift them up and never tear them down.
10) Be there for them through the good and bad times!
I have so many people in my life that have done these things for me and they have made my life worth living! I have loving parents that have been there for me through-out my life and shown me love in more ways than I can count. Siblings and family have supported me in many big life events. Friends that have made me soup when I was sick or gave me blessings on short notice. Teachers have taken more time than required to guide me to positive directions in life. Coaches and
mentors have cheered me on. The list is endless!
To love and to be loved is one of the greatest blessings of this life. May we love more freely and recognize the love others show us more readily! I can assure you, your life will be more full and joyful if you do!
Challenge: Think of one person in your life that could use more love from you whether family or friend. What is something that you can do for them this week?
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