Tag Archives: lauraanderson

God’s Instruction – Laura Anderson

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A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. John 13:34 NIV

My patient sat up in the chair after I cleaned his teeth. “Do you see a lot of people you don’t like?” he asked.

I thought a moment. “No, I like most everyone who’s a patient here. I just wish they would do what I tell them to do,” I replied. I believe God would add a strong “Me too.”

Why don’t we do what we know God wants us to? Are God’s instructions not clear? Or do we value something or someone more than God and His Word?

Jesus commanded us to love as He loved. Scripture paints a picture of love more clearly than a thousand “I love you’s.” The eternal God on one day 2000+ years ago confined Himself to time, humbled Himself to exist as a man, and died a criminal death on a cross for the sin of all mankind. God became man to die so we can have abundant and eternal life. Because of God’s great love for me, I know how to love others.

Some people are easy to love and others aren’t. And therein lies the problem. I easily show love to those who show love to me. I resist loving those I have conflict with. “Love your enemies,” Jesus said. I can almost hear the people gasp. They were taught an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. But grace gives undeserved favor to everyone.

Take a moment to think of people in your life who are difficult to love. What can you do in a practical way to help them? Always remember: you may be the best or worst introduction to Jesus some people will ever have.

Abba, I will praise You for I am free! Love has broken my chains. Because of Your love, I will be love today. Thank You, Jesus. Amen.

Laura Anderson is a dental hygienist and Mom to two teenagers. She is working on her first book. Laura facilitates DivorceCare and a small group at church. Her passion is to encourage single moms with help and hope through God’s Word.Read Laura’s devotions.

Divorced Love – Laura Anderson

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And let us not get tired of doing what is right, for after a while we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t get discouraged and give up. Galatians 6:9 TLB

“Mom, I need some money.” my daughter said.

“What for honey?”

“It’s Dad’s birthday tomorrow and we need to get a present for him.”

Really God? You want me to give my children money to get a birthday present for my ex-husband? I wanted to tell them no. I handed my teenage son and daughter some money.

As the kids discussed their gift purchase, I began to feel as if God was asking too much from me. After all, the kid’s dad and I were divorced. I’d given all I had to a marriage that failed. There was nothing left to give.

This isn’t fair, God.

When I feel weary of showing God’s love to others, I stop and think of God’s great love for me. Jesus gave up His glory and power, disguised himself as a human, and died a criminal death on a cross. And He gave it all freely. No one knows us better than God. No one loves us more.

When I feel empty and discouraged, I fill myself up with the Word of God. There is strength and power in His Word.

My children found a great gift for their dad and I found peace in forgiving kindness. Giving kindness, even when it’s tough, showcases God’s amazing love.

What can you do today to show God’s love and kindness to someone? There are people all around who are hurting. Do not grow tired of doing what is right and be a blessing to someone today.

Father, give me eyes to see the hurting all around me and a willing heart to be generous to others. Thank you Jesus. Amen.

Laura Anderson is a dental hygienist and Mom to two teenagers. She is working on her first book. Laura facilitates DivorceCare and a small group at church. Her passion is to encourage single moms with help and hope through God’s Word. Read Laura’s devotions.