Love Our Neighbor as Ourselves

Yvonne Morgan

2 years ago

For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
Galatians 5:14 (NIV)

Today’s Encouragement

The garage door opened slowly across the street, revealing a weathered gray exterior as the door creaked with each inch of its ascent. A familiar light blue car backed down the driveway and out onto the street. I stood on the sidewalk, feeling the warmth of the afternoon sun on my face, while the distant sounds of children playing added a cheerful melody to the neighborhood. The driver offered a quick wave as she drove away. I waved back, hoping she would see me in the rearview mirror. A quick thought ran through my mind: Am I loving my neighbor as myself or just living my life without connecting with them?

How often do we rely solely on this method to connect with our neighbors? Have you ever gotten to know those living nearby? The book of Galatians serves as a reminder that we should treat our neighbors with the same love and care we have for ourselves. To fulfill this command, we must venture beyond the familiar confines of our homes and venture towards the dwellings of our neighbors.

And if you’re an introvert like I am, the thought of this feels like standing at the edge of a vast, intimidating lawn. The expanse seems daunting but taking that first step can ignite a transformative journey. However, we can embark on the path to becoming a godly neighbor even before we set foot on the grass. So, let’s delve into the ways to fulfill the commandment in Galatians, allowing us to bridge the divide and cultivate meaningful connections.

Steps to Love Our Neighbor

The good Samaritan slowed down enough to see the need for the man in his path. So our journey starts by observing what happens around the neighborhood. If you slowed down enough, maybe you would realize the neighbor who hasn’t come out in a while.
Pray for God’s help to see what he sees. Ask him to give us eyes to see what’s happening around us so we can try to help. With prayer, we can learn to look at the needs of people and act upon those needs. Maybe the neighbor who hasn’t come out just needs someone to check on them so they feel like they matter.
And once we establish a relationship with neighbors, we can invite them to church so they can learn about our Heavenly Father. Imagine a world with everyone working on loving their neighbor as themselves.

Becoming a Good Neighbor

By fulfilling the command in Galatians, we become a radiant beacon, illuminating the love of Christ to those around us. In a world teeming with souls in anguish, our presence offers a soothing balm. We might be the only messenger of the gospel that graces our neighbor’s existence. Embrace this calling and embark on the journey of becoming a good neighbor.

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for the unending love you give us every day. Thank you for reminding me to love my neighbor as myself. Please direct me to those that need to feel that love today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.