David and Marilynn Chadwick
May 19, 20221 min
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:34).
Followers of Jesus are expected to lead with love. This means assuming the best in others until proven otherwise.
If you are skeptical, wary and distrustful of others - expecting them to let you down - then you’ll view whomever God brings into your life with suspicion. Guarding yourself. Living with the purpose of not being hurt. Missing out on the love God intended you to receive.
However, when a person disappoints you because of their bad character, then yes you should have your guard up around that person going forward (1 Corinthians 15:33).
But until then, love others as Jesus has loved you. Reread the biblical characteristics of love in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7.
Assume the best in others until prove otherwise. And enjoy the loving relationships God has placed in your life.