Saturday, September 9, 2023

Over the past week, we’ve been challenged to love our enemies by finding ways to bless and pray for those who are exceedingly difficult to love.

Today, I invite you to carve out a few quiet moments to reread the verses that really spoke to you throughout the week. Some possibilities may include Matthew 5:43-46, Romans 5:7-8, and Romans 12:17-21. Then look back on the notes you captured Sunday, along with the actions you took to love your enemy over the past seven days, and reflect on how God grew you.

You may consider making additional notes as you explore the following questions:

What steps did you take to love your enemy this week?

What did you notice about yourself as you intentionally made the most of these opportunities? What is one thing that went well? What was challenging or difficult?

How can you continue to love and share God’s love with those whom he has placed in your life?

Prayer: 
Lord, thank you for setting the perfect example of loving our enemies through your son Jesus Christ. Father, you loved us when we were still sinners and sent your son, who willingly died on the Cross, so we could have a relationship with you. I am so grateful for Christ’s love even though I didn’t deserve it. Lord, help me love my neighbor as you have loved me. Lord, even those I consider enemies. May they come to know your love too. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Series Theme Verse:

1 John 4:10-11
¹⁰ This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins. ¹¹ Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other. 

This post was written by Kelly Pagel, Director of the LivingItOut Devotional.