Matthew 7:21-23

21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22 Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ 23 Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’ - Matthew 7:21-23

Dear Jesus,

I know you want me to be authentic with you.  You deserve no less.  You're authentic with me.  I struggle to keep your command to love everyone because honestly sometimes I just don't want to.  I'm conditional, resentful and selfish.  I repent of this too.  I know you want me to be your light in the world.  Help me.  Please help me deal with my stubbornness to love the porcupines in my life.  Give me the "want to" and the "get to" so I will do the will of your father in heaven.  I'm deeply grateful that you never sinned.  I hide my shame in your righteousness.  Now help me not to hide your righteousness under my shame. 

Amen

Pastor Don Patterson

If you love God who loved you first, you will struggle mightily to practice his love in every relationship he brings your way. 

Additional Reading: 1 John 3 and 4.