“A friend means well, even when he hurts you. But when an enemy puts his hand round your shoulder - watch out!” - Proverbs 27:6
It doesn’t matter what someone has done to you. How bad they’ve hurt you. If they have mistreated those you love. Defamed your character. Spread gossip. Turned people against you. Or broken you down so low you can’t get up. Even well meaning friends can unknowingly hurt you.
Your true faith is revealed when you practice I Corinthians 13. When you chose to love those who have hurt you, even if it’s an enemy (Matthew 5:44, Romans 12:14). Yes, in that way, like the 80s rock ballad says: Love Hurts.
Don’t wish condemnation. Refuse to seek vengeance. Resist the urge to rejoice when they struggle. Be like Jesus. Forgive them because they don’t know what they are doing to themselves and others. Also, you and I are guilty of doing the same things. We need to practice the golden rule (Matthew 7:12).
As a final thought, remember Jesus. No matter who has hurt you, and no matter what they've done, remember Jesus came down to save ALL of us and that none of us are righteous. The manger is a symbol of humility and forgiveness. at this time of the year people are looking to the manger. It is a great talking point!
I had a college professor once tell me that “Hurt people hurt people.” So true. If you’ve been hurt by someone, please try to walk in their shoes and forgive at every opportunity. Love always!
You are loved!
Dr. Ray Reynolds
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