For many, this question is a valid one because all they have experienced was contrary to what was informed, believed, and lived was true. Hurts, disappointments, broken promises, betrayal, and mistrust were the outcomes felt that left permanent marks in their lives.
So, then what? Do you live a cynical life that questions everything with a lens that has been broken into millions of pieces? Many would say, “Yes!” why be vulnerable and gullible and get hurt again. Although there is no guarantee that you may never get hurt again. I say that is NOT living. What if you allow one that can heal your heart and mend all your brokenness?
Who would that be? Can he truly be able to heal me and I then would be able to love again. Is there really such hope? I say without a shadow of a doubt, “Absolutely, YES!!” His name is Jesus and His essence is LOVE. “The one who does not love has not become acquainted with God (does not and never did know Him), for God is love. (He is the originator of love, and it is an enduring attribute of His nature.) 1 John 4:8 AMP
Agape is the word that describes selfless, sacrificial, unconditional love, the highest of the four types of love in the bible. This Greek word and variations of it are found throughout the New Testament. It perfectly describes the kind of love God the Father for Jesus Christ. As well as Jesus has for his Father and for his followers: Jesus lived out agape by sacrificing himself for the sins of the world. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 AMP
Agape love destroys division, loneliness, strife, anger, hatred, and envy. It is caring for others who are lost, lonely, hurting, needy and the unlovable. But how can one have this type of love? God is the one who will deposit this kind of love in you. It originates from Him and pours into a willing heart. The heart must be receptive and desiring to be healed by the past negative experiences.
It is not to deny what had occurred but to release those negative emotions attached to the person and circumstances. Letting go is freeing! Let go of hatred, anger, bitterness, frustrations, and anxieties. Then He will be able to pour mercy, forgiveness, peace, joy, and His love into you.
Demonstration of agape love can be displayed by active listening to the other person, respecting differences, willing to understand the other person’s viewpoint, and sincerely asking for their opinion. When problem arises, which they will, be ready to talk about it openly and candidly. Truly pray for the other person’s complete well-being.
Billy Graham stated, “Agape love is selfless love…the love God wants us to have isn’t just an emotion but a conscious act of the will- a deliberate decision on our part to put others ahead of ourselves. This is the kind of love God has for us.”
Peace, Love, and Joy!
Sandra Miranda
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