How Can Pain Lead to Authenticity and Openness?

Is someone in your life causing you trouble or discomfort? Do you feel a duty to love that specific person? Sometimes we care for difficult people from a sense of obligation, and not from genuine concern and love for an individual. Oftentimes, beneath the smile, there might be some hidden negative feelings like contempt or anger. 

To address negative emotions that could cloud judgement, and eventually become triggers for harmful words and actions, consider this verse: “For the whole law is fulfilled in one command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ If you bite and devour one another, be careful or you will be destroyed by each other.” - Galatians 5:14-15

When reflecting on the word of God, invite the Holy Spirit to uncover any negative emotions you may hold towards those who are currently challenging you.

When recalling negative events that evoke negative feelings toward someone, seek guidance from the Holy Spirit to determine if your current attitude and chosen behaviors towards challenging individuals are appropriate. 

As you examine your heart, the Holy Spirit assists in maturing you through your pains. This purging process transforms your heart to be authentic and open. Genuine and open individuals have a therapeutic impact on those around them.

Ask God to give you perfect love for other people