20 Days Of Relational HealthSýnishorn

For years, my “love” was self-serving and, at times, superficial. I wasn’t always a good friend, and I definitely wasn’t a good wife. When my husband doted on me, I acted in kind. But when we experienced relational tension, I worsened it by turning away and trying to fulfill my needs while neglecting his.

Then we started seeking God. As we grew closer to Him, how I loved my husband and others changed. 

Slowly, I learned to express adoration while utilizing the gifts of the Spirit like joy, patience, gentleness, and self-control. I grew in my understanding of Jesus and His great love for me … for everyone. He is love, so as I grew closer to Him, I became more like Him.

Paul, an early church planter who wrote the book of Philippians, demonstrated this progression. God took him from selfishness to sacrifice, from someone who hurt others to one who built them up. He went from persecuting Christians to investing in them and loving them with the "affection of Christ Jesus." That's deep love rooted in a well that will never run dry.

In order to know how to love, we must know Jesus. Do you lack compassion, self-control, patience, and gentleness? Then spend time with Christ through prayer and Bible reading. As you do, He’ll change your heart to resemble His. Ask Jesus to show you where your love for others needs transformation and modifications.

~ Kristen Terrette