The verse Ellie gives us today is short and to the point: “Do everything in love” (1 Corinthians 16:14, NIV).

Read that again, this time with a real emphasis on the word everything. “Do everything in love.” That’s what Ellie urges us to think about today. 

Yeah, kind of hard, isn’t it?

I had a conversation with some friends the other day about a challenging relationship, and out of frustration, one said, “But I’m just tired of being nice to her!”

I get it. I’ve been there. 

Several weeks ago, a person close to me called me and said some pretty hurtful things. But rather than respond by blurting out the harsh words that came to mind, I took a deep breath. In that brief moment, the Holy Spirit whispered to me:

“This person is hurting. Show them love. Show them grace.”

I chose words of love that day, and it changed our conversation completely. I’m glad I took that quick moment to listen to the Lord because my response opened doors that previously had been closed.

When we are trying to figure out how to do everything in love, we need to remember our Round 8 fighting words:

“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 your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6, NASB)

Daily, I strive to do all things in love for my family. As a wife, mom of two adult girls and grandma of two, life gets pretty exciting. When I’m not sure what to do or say, having Proverbs 3:5-6 memorized gives me the confidence that God will help me know how to lovingly respond to any situation. And He will guide my steps each day. 

Keep pushing forward! I’ll be back with you on Monday, August 15. See you then!

Alicia  

Fighting Back!

Practically speaking, how can you do everything in love? What does that look like in your life?