Hello, Altered Stories Ministry Family,
We are in a month that is about love. Now, there are many ways to think about this topic. There is the love that God has for us, the love we have for ourselves, and the love we have for others.
Now let’s be honest, any one of those types of love could bring out an article in itself, but for this moment in time I want to talk about the love that God has for us.
As of this writing, I am in the middle of trying to release a book around my early childhood. In this process I have had to examine up close, where God was in the middle of some gut punching traumas. Yet through the process, I have come to see where God was in the mist of those situations.
So, the question to you, is what does God’s love look like?
Love is patient. It endures hardships, delays, and offenses without becoming easily angered.
Love is kind. It is gentle, compassionate, and actively seeks the well-being of others.
Love does not envy. It does not harbor jealousy or resentment towards others’ successes.
Love does not boast. It is not prideful or self-glorifying.
Love is not arrogant (or proud). It does not act superior or think of itself as better than others.
Love is not rude. It is considerate and respects the feelings and dignity of others.
Love is not self-seeking. It is not selfish or focused on personal gain.
Love is not easily angered. It does not have a short temper or hold grudges.
Love keeps no record of wrongs. It does not dwell on past offenses or seek revenge.
Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It does not find joy in wrongdoing but celebrates honesty and righteousness.
Love always protects. It looks out for and defends others.
Love always trusts. It believes the best about others and has faith in God.
Love always hopes. It remains optimistic and expects the best, even in difficult situations.
Love always perseveres. It endures through challenges, hardships, and trials.
Love never fails. It is eternal and will never come to an end.
These are the characteristics of our God. This is how he loves us, and how he expects us to love others. And yet, what if your experience with God is less than loving? What if your experience as shown by your parents, or by other people in your life does not line up with these principles?
First, it is ok, as a believer. We are all in process of becoming more like him. If you have wounding from your past because you cannot comprehend the idea of God’s love, I’d say test him.
Take the time to go before him, and ask him to reveal who he is, and to show you, his love. It is ok if you are hurting. You can share that hurt with the father. He has big shoulders, and he can handle your hurt and you’re wounding.
If you need help, please, feel free to reach out to Altered Stories Ministry as we would be glad to help in any way we can.
God bless,
Teresa
