How to Love Others Even When It Hurts

Loving others is easier said then done, especially loving others who have hurt you in your life. I have been put to the test throughout my college life so far about loving people who have hurt me and it is still an ongoing lesson I'll be learning the rest of my life.

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Realizing the Hurt

Hurting because of the actions of others is hard. I have been hurt by friends and family members within the past 8 months of my life. There have been situations where conflict comes up, I have said harsh words, and ended relationships. I have been so full of feelings of being let down, not feeling good enough, and being judged. 

How to Deal with the Hurt 

The hardest part of the process of hurting is knowing how to deal with it. How individuals deal with hurt is different across the board, however, one thing is true- we need to go about handling our hurt in a healthy way. It is clear that mental illness is rampant throughout children, teens, and young adults. We need to start by seeking professional help if our hurt reaches this point of mental illness.

The hurt is going to take time to heal. It is different from person to person how long it will take. Some hurt in my life I am completely redeemed from, and other hurt, not so much.

What the Bible Says 

The Bible is so clear about hurt and how we should treat it. We need to remember as Christians that God loved us so much he sent his son Jesus to die for sinners everywhere. More than likely we have been both the victim and perpetrator of hurt. God sent his son Jesus to take away the pain of hurt and redeem the act of hurting others.

Here is what the Bible has to say:

"But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you..." Matthew 5:44 ESV.

"...with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love..." Ephesians 4:2 ESV.

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"Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive" Colossians 3:12-13 ESV. 

"But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you..." Luke 6:27 ESV.

Simple Steps

1. Interpret your hurt and if it has reached a point of talking to a professional.
2. Pray. Pray about the hurt and that God would give you the power to forgive the person. Then, pray for the person. 
3. When or if you come in contact with the person you have hurt or has hurt you, be responsible and loving. Remember, you don't need to be their best friend but you do need to be respectful.