Loving the Unlovable
I will say that some people are hard to love. Loving the unlovable can be a challenge we all face. Whether it’s the co-worker who constantly tests your patience, the family member who pushes your buttons, or even a stranger who’s rude for no reason, loving difficult people can feel like an impossible task. But here’s the truth: as followers of Christ, we’re called to love, even when it’s not easy.
The Challenge of Loving Difficult People:
I remember a time when I had a difficult coworker who was… well, let’s just say, challenging. She complained about everything, from me reading my bible on break at my desk or the way I answered the phone. It seemed as if my presence disturbed her. No matter how kind or patient I was with her, she just didn’t like me. Every encounter with her left me frustrated and tempted to respond in anger.
One day, after another tense interaction, I cried out to God, “Why do I have to deal with this, Lord?” His answer came gently to my heart: “Because I love her, and I want you to love her too.”
The truth is, loving others isn’t about how they treat us; it’s about how God calls us to reflect His love. Matthew 5:44 says, “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” It’s not about ignoring bad behavior, but about choosing grace over retaliation.
God’s Example of Unconditional Love:
Think about Jesus. He loved the unlovable, the broken, and the outcasts. Even on the cross, He prayed for the people who crucified Him, saying, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34).
If we’re honest, we’ve all been “difficult” at times, yet God loves us anyway. His love is not based on our performance but on His character. When we draw from that well of grace, we can extend the same love to others, even those who don’t deserve it.
Key Scripture:
John 13:34-35 – “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
Practical Ways to Love Difficult People:
- Pray for Them: It’s hard to stay angry at someone you’re praying for. Ask God to soften their heart—and yours.
- Set Boundaries: Loving someone doesn’t mean tolerating unhealthy behavior. Set limits, but do it with kindness.
- Choose Kindness Over Reactivity: When they push your buttons, pause and respond with grace instead of reacting in frustration.
- Remember God’s Grace for You: Reflect on how God loves you in your imperfections. Let that fuel your love for others.
- Speak Life: Instead of gossiping about their behavior, speak blessings over them.
Prayer for Grace in Relationships:
Lord, thank You for loving me, even when I’m difficult. Help me to extend that same love to others, especially those who are hard to love. Give me patience, wisdom, and grace in my interactions. Teach me to reflect Your heart in every relationship. I want to love like You no matter how others treat me. Help me to understand boundaries, knowing that I don’t have to put up with any and everything. Give me strength to show Your love to those who dislike or hate me. Help me to bless those who curse me, love those who hate me, and pray for them all. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Reflection and Action Steps:
- Reflect: Who in your life is hard to love right now? What would it look like to love them as Christ loves you?
- Act: This week, commit to one act of kindness for someone you find difficult to love.
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