You Are Not Doing This Alone

Sunday Rewind is a 5-day Devotional based on the weekly sermon at Resonate Community Church

June 21st Sermon, Day 5

By now, you may be thinking: this all sounds right, but I am not sure I am capable of it. Loving someone who hurt you deeply, praying for them sincerely, releasing bitterness, maintaining grace without losing yourself. That is a lot to ask. And honestly, you are right. On your own, it is too much.

But here is the most freeing truth of this entire journey: you were never meant to do it alone. We do not love enemies because we are naturally good at it. We love enemies because Christ's love flows through us when we stay connected to Him. When you remember how much you have been forgiven, forgiveness becomes possible. When you remember how patient God has been with you, patience becomes possible. When you remember that God loved you while you were still far from Him, loving someone who is far from you becomes possible.

This is not about trying harder. It is about staying closer to Jesus. His love is the source. You are simply the channel. Loving your enemy is not weakness. It may be one of the greatest demonstrations of spiritual strength you will ever show. And every time you choose it, you look a little more like the One who prayed from the cross, "Father, forgive them." You can do this. Not because you are strong enough, but because He is.

Bible Verse

"But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." - Matthew 5:44

Reflection Question

In what area of your life do you most need to stop trying to manufacture love on your own and instead ask God to let His love flow through you?

Quote

"We don't love enemies because we're naturally good. We can love enemies because Christ's love flows through us."

Prayer

Jesus, I cannot do this without You, and I am grateful I do not have to. Fill me with Your love today so that it overflows to the people I find hardest to love. Amen.