How can I love others when I don’t feel like it?
1. Understand That Love is More Than a Feeling:
Story Example:
Imagine you have a plant. You don’t always feel excited about watering it, but you know it needs water to grow. So, you water it even when you don’t feel like it. Love works similarly; it’s something you do to help others grow and feel happy.
Scripture:
1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (NIV) says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
2. Practice Empathy:
Story Example:
Think about a time when you felt sad or lonely. How did you want others to treat you? Now, try to treat others the way you would want to be treated if you were in their shoes.
Scripture:
Matthew 7:12 (NIV) says, “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.”
3. Perform Acts of Kindness:
Story Example:
Even if you don’t feel like it, doing something nice for someone, like helping them with their homework or sharing your snacks, can show love. Over time, these actions can make you feel more loving towards them.
Scripture:
Galatians 6:9 (NIV) says, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
4. Pray or Meditate:
Story Example:
Imagine you’re having a tough time with a friend. Take a moment to pray, asking God to help you understand and love them. This can give you peace and help you see them in a new light.
Scripture:
Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV) says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
5. Focus on the Positive:
Story Example:
If someone annoys you, try to think of good things about them. Maybe they’re funny or good at sports. Focusing on their good qualities can help you feel more loving.
Scripture:
Philippians 4:8 (NIV) says, “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
These steps and stories can help a child or teen understand that love is an action and a choice, supported by teachings from the Bible.
