What does it mean to really love others?
”Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good.“ Romans 12:9 NLT
”Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good.“ Romans 12:9 NKJV
”Be sincere in your love for others. Hate everything that is evil and hold tight to everything that is good.“ Romans 12:9 CEV
”Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.“ Romans 12:2 NLT
Take aways from Joyce
Forgiveness is such a big part of walking in love. We cannot truly love without forgiveness.
Forgiveness is not:
1. a feeling
2. Pretending you were not hurt
3. Condoning what was done
4. Trusting the offender
5. Relieving the person of responsibility
Effects of unforgiveness
Steps to forgiving
1. Pray for yourself to have a proper attitude
2. Ask God to make you willing to forgive
3. Choose to forgive and tell God (out loud) that here and now you are choosing to forgive.
4. Ask God to forgive your offender
5. Ask God to bless them.
Know that it takes faith to forgive
You may or may not feel any different at all. Draw that line that you will never cross over again, knowing that feelings do not dictate the decision, but your spirit will be free.
Matthew 18:21-35
Ephesians 4:31&32
1) Do the Live People Bible study together with your B&B sisters.
2) Journal about your progress of loving others and walking in forgiveness
3) Take the forgiveness challenge. Pray each morning and declare by God’s help that you predetermine to forgive anyone who offends you. Don’t worry if you mess up, just ask God’s forgiveness and keep on forgiving.