“This is the message you have heard from the beginning:
We should love one another.” - 1 John 3:11 (NLT)
Over a century ago, President Abraham Lincoln's capacity for forgiveness extended even to his worst enemy and critic, Edwin Stanton. Stanton was silenced by Lincoln’s loving responses and later, while attending Lincoln's funeral remarked, "There lies the greatest man I ever knew."
Lincoln had the extraordinary ability to love and reconcile with adversaries. Despite Stanton's earlier harsh criticisms, Lincoln appointed him as Secretary of War, recognizing his competence for the role. Lincoln's willingness to embrace former foes highlighted his commitment to national unity and healing. Stanton’s respect for Lincoln at his funeral epitomizes Lincoln's enduring legacy as a leader who helped reconcile relationships.
Have you faced criticism or insults in your life? How does that internal dialogue unfold in your mind? In a culture that often promotes a 'get-even' mentality, the apostle John advises us to love one another. Even Jesus, in Matthew 5:44, encourages us to "love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you!"
Let's discard the list of those who have hurt us and inscribe this on our hearts instead, "Love this person. Love that enemy. Pray for that person who has persecuted me." In doing so, we can turn enemies into friends through the power of God’s love. Let's embrace the way of Jesus and choose to actively love one another!
"In a culture that often promotes a 'get-even' mentality, the apostle John advises us to love one another."
Tip of the Day
Practice forgiveness today by choosing one person who may have wronged you and offer a sincere prayer for their well-being and healing.
Prayer
Father, thank You for being a God who loves and forgives since You are perfect love. Help me to remember that You died for all my sins. My sins against You are vile in Your eyes, but that’s why Your Son had such an excruciatingly painful death on the cross. I am astounded by Your ability to forgive me. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pause and Reflect
How can Lincoln’s approach to forgiveness and reconciliation inspire you to handle criticism in your life?
In what ways can you actively practice loving those who may have criticized or wronged you?
Reflect on a situation in your life where choosing love and forgiveness could lead to healing and reconciliation. What steps can you take to move in that direction?
