I’ve been convicted by Proverbs 20:7 that teaches us: The righteous woman who walks in integrity and lives life in accord with her godly beliefs-How blessed, happy and spiritually secure are her children after her who have her example to follow.
After committing my heart to Jesus, I understand that I am now called to go make disciples by sharing the Good News through God’s unconditional Love with others. It all sounds wonderful, but I struggle mightily with the part about loving people who, I believe, are being unlovely. However, when I have the presence of mind to bring my conflicted spirit to God, He usually has a beautiful way of righting my heart:
Last year, a new family moved in next door to us. They quickly displayed political signs that don’t align with our values. The husband salvages old cars for a living and what didn’t fit in their driveway spilled into our shared cul-de-sac. They also had a cat that voiced his disdain for his new outside living arrangement for extended periods of time in the pre-dawn hours. I found this to be utterly unlovely. My heart became bitter towards their family and I struggled feeling like a walking contradiction. Teaching my children about Jesus’ unconditional love while thinking less of and avoiding our new neighbors. I prayed one night for God to turn my heart and show me how He would have me love this family.
At sunrise the following morning, I stepped out for a run and saw a firetruck and ambulance parked in front of their house. Shortly after, the wife came outside, shaken, and told me that their troubled roommate’s body had succumbed after a three-day alcohol binge. When I asked how I could help and she asked me to please just pray, and I did. Their friend sadly passed away that day, and our family was able to come alongside and love them in their grief, from a unique place of understanding. Despite our differences, a relationship has developed, meaningful conversations have been had, and our children have forged sweet friendships. They've even told their new friends about Jesus.
Through studying the Bible’s Precepts and seeking the Holy Spirit to kindly guide my next steps, I am learning how to be an example my children can follow.
