Scripture

1 Peter 4:8 (New International Version)

Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.

Consider

A hurtful conflict gives us the best opportunity to experience the healing power and reconciling nature of love.

When we have been hurt by another—betrayed, insulted, rejected, damaged physically or emotionally—we don’t always think of responding with love. Our knee-jerk response might be anger, defensiveness, or a need to hurt back. From there we might start nursing a grudge or indulging in harmful gossip. With some effort, we must remember to love instead.

God’s Word tells us that “love covers over a multitude of sins.” Interestingly, love not only helps us to overlook another’s hurtful behavior but covers over our own sins as well. Love smothers our sinful desires to inflict harm and let bitterness rule. It takes the sword out of our hearts and reminds us of a better way to deal with conflict.

When God’s illuminating love flows through us and out to others, we see ourselves as well as the other person more clearly and without prejudice. Love exposes lies and wrong assumptions and challenges our self-righteous position. We see the sense of settling matters quickly, and our desire shifts from self-assertion to reconciling and moving beyond the conflict.

Remembering to love in a difficult situation requires faith and a commitment to living our lives God’s way. We belong to God, and he is sovereign over our relationships. When we remember God’s love and mercy to us, we realize that all debts have been paid by the only One who could afford the cost. Our calling is not to judge and punish others but to bring love and light into the world wherever we happen to be.

Pray

FATHER, I confess that when I have been hurt, I don’t want to love. I don’t want to forgive. In those moments when I would respond to hurt in sinful ways, please help me to remember how much I love you and desire your will for my life. Cover me with your love so that I can offer this person love and light instead of a hurtful response. Wash me clean from all hatred and bitterness and make me holy, set apart for your will and your kingdom on earth.

Reflect

Proverbs 10:12; 17:9; Isaiah 51:16

Share

Who in your life is especially difficult for you to love and forgive? What do you need from God to help you overcome your resistance to loving this person?