Love Yourself

“Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.” 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, NLT

When most of us read this passage of scripture, we direct our thoughts on loving others. But today, as we transition into the New Year I ask that you direct your thoughts on loving YOURSELF. Let’s break down the prior six sentences of scripture like this:

One, let’s agree to be more patient with ourselves. Let’s not strive for perfection, realizing that it’s an unattainable goal. Let’s be kind to ourselves both directly and indirectly, in not allowing others to treat us otherwise.

Two, let’s not compare ourselves to others. Let’s allow ourselves the lessons, time, humility, and mercy to grow at God’s pace and none other’s. Let’s pray for guidance and then create a vision board to let it be our personal standard for the year.

Three, let’s focus on living our lives on God’s terms. Let’s trust that He has an amazing plan in place for our BEST. Let’s not let others’ self serving demands distract us from our godly purposes.

Four, let’s not irritate our souls by dwelling on things we’ve done in the past. It’s over. Neither time nor desire can change it. We can make more friends, and we can make more money, but we can never make more time. Let’s seize the day: Carpe diem!

Five, let’s not repeat false narratives about ourselves. Self judgment that says, “I’m not good enough,” or “There’s no having a great life, for me,” is contrary to what God’s Word says about us; therefore it’s unjust. Let’s live our truths without reservation, ensuring that it aligns with what God says about our beliefs. In that way, we WIN.

Six, let’s not give up on ourselves. Let’s love ourselves to the extreme. Love enough to endure every circumstance that would cause us to lose hope at being happy. Let’s keep the kind of faith that facilitates growth and prosperity.

I really felt that God wanted me to share these incentives. I took it as coming straight from His heart when I heard it. And as usual I just had to share it with my blog friends and family. Thank you all for a year of reading, and allowing me to share my love with you.

God bless you MORE in 2024!

“Love Yourself” by M. J. Smith first appeared here (www.mjeanettesmith.com) at Falcon’s Vision LLC

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