Yesterday I was intrigued by Rainer’s post, over at The Devotional Guy, I Don’t Gently Love People to Hell. His point was, he doesn’t sugar coat the gospel to tickle folks ears–especially when they’re deconstructing and questioning their faith.
Jesus didn’t gently love people to hell, either. He spoke the truth in love–even when it was tough. His conversation with the Rich Young Ruler comes to mind.
Our former pastor coined a memorable phrase to describe the “go big or go home” Christian life:
“We need to love the hell out of people.”
You should’ve seen the looks he got the first time he said that to our congregation! His point was, don’t stop loving folks God’s way when the going gets tough; literally love the devil out of them.
There was a brother I knew at seminary who was rough around the edges. Sean was brash and quick tempered–someone who needed a great deal of patience and love from the other guys on the dorm hall. We tried, but didn’t always get the job done. Please read my post, Weeds are Flowers Too for the whole story.
Be merciful to those who doubt; save others by snatching them from the fire; to others show mercy, mixed with fear—hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh. – Jude 1:22-23
Kind reader, let’s meet doubters and rough-around-the edges believers right where they are without letting them go! 🙏 Heavenly Father, help us to speak Your truth in love.
Jesus looked at him and loved him. ‘One thing you lack,’ he said. ‘Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.’– Mark 10:21
Thank you for reading. 🙏❤️ Prayers and love.
Tag. Rainer, you’re it! 🤗
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