Friday, March 10, 2023

One of the things I love about my job is that I have the opportunity to help others. And when I help people, I do my best to love them like Jesus does. I listen to them and make sure that they know I hear them and empathize with them. And because I've been in a similar spot, sometimes, I’m able to take off my own mask and share some of my experiences and testimony.

Recently, I had the privilege of talking with someone who received some news that, to me, seemed life-shattering. At the time, I remembered something I learned at church—living open-handedly—with God and those around us. I did what I could to teach that lesson by explaining that the new stressor was like a lit firecracker in their hand. If you clench it in your fist when it explodes, you could lose a finger or two. But if you open your hand and let it go, when it explodes, the damage won’t be as traumatic or life-altering. 

Unfortunately, life is full of explosions. Maybe it's because of choices you made, or perhaps it’s the result of something someone did to you. Regardless, God never intended you to hold on to them and handle things all alone. When that happens, the results, much like a firecracker exploding in your hand, aren't pretty. Instead, God wants us to share our burdens with him. And he will bring people alongside us to help us walk through our struggles.   

When we are the people God uses to help others whose lives are exploding, it can get challenging. It's easy to jump to the mess and focus on all the possible negative outcomes. Often it's a quick step to “shoulding” all over the people we’re trying to help. Instead, we need to remember the love and forgiveness God gives us and extend this grace to each other in genuine love.  

Romans 12:9
Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good.

Showing love to others with no strings attached isn't always easy. I know I sometimes struggle to express love well, but because of what I’ve been given from Jesus’ love, I feel compelled to offer it to others. It's what we’re called to do.

So, if you encounter someone who is hurting or holding onto firecrackers, love them like Jesus. Through your love and actions, show them there is a better way. 

And remember, anything is possible with God’s grace.  

John 3:21
“But those who do what is right come to the light so others can see that they are doing what God wants.”

Questions:
Have you ever been in a situation where your experience could help someone else? How could you do this by loving them well? How do you handle your own firecrackers?

Next Steps:
Text “Promises” to 419-419-0707 to be reminded of God’s promises for you. 

Help others know Jesus’ love whenever you get the chance.

Prayer:
God, I love you. I love that you place people in my path for me to spread your love, your words, and your compassion. The grace you have given me as a gift is one that I pray I can share with everyone I meet. You are always there when I need you, and you never fail. Let me continue to show others your unconditional love. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Series Theme Verse:

2 Peter 1:4
And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires.