I’ve realized recently that spiritual and philosophical pursuits are fine, but if they don’t lead to self improvement they are wasted. I enjoy researching and debating Calvinism and Arminianism and end times theology, but without a true grasp of the more foundational Truths, I can’t apply any of my knowledge to my life. I’m no better of a man because I believe in amilleniallism. So, what’s the key to becoming a better person? Love …
I now have a goal for my life, for self improvement, which is something I haven’t had for years. Quite simply my goal is to be more loving. Religious leaders and motivational speakers are always encouraging us to step out of the normal and to become exceptional, and I’ve realized that I’m a normal lover. My revelation about the Love Revolution is that for me to be the best man I can possibly be, I have to be the most loving man I can possibly be.
As I pulled out of the driveway to go to work this morning I looked up and saw Ava sitting on the back of the couch looking out of our big front window at me. I rolled down my window and waved a big wave. She smiled a huge smile and waved back. God, I love her so much, and I want her and all of my kids to know what love really is. So many times I’ve chosen what I wanted instead of what my kids wanted. Why don’t I immediately shift my attention and take the time to look at the pictures Jaron drew, or the princess that Ava colored, or the homework that Lianne is working on, instead of putting them off for a few minutes while I “finish this article”? Why don’t I judge the words I say before they come out of my mouth to determine whether they are loving or not? This is where the things I believe, and the platitudes I say, meet with real life. This is where it counts.
So, how can I be more loving? The dictionary definition just doesn’t seem to cut it. I like the Bible’s.
1 Corinthians 13 – Love is patient, kind, does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, 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. Love never fails.
John 15:13 – Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.
Luke 6:35 – But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back.
I see now how little I really understand about love and how little I practice it. Self improvement is always good, and my goal is to be the most loving man I can possibly be. I don’t know if anyone will notice a difference, and I don’t know how quickly I’ll be able to change. I will change though, and I plan for the change to be permanent.