Not So Crazy Love: 8 Practical Ways to Practice Loving One Another

Francis Chan's book "Crazy Love", has been sweeping this generation with the unmistakable notion that as Christians, God's incredible & undeniable love for us should change the way we see & treat others, & permeate through every part of our lives. I believe that Luke 6:31 helps us put into perspective how we should treat others. & as a woman, constantly striving to be an example of the gospel, I've comprised a list of 8, small, practical actions that can help you love others.

1. You know that one person you cannot stand? PRAY FOR THEM.
I can only give this advice because it's worked in my own life. When my heart has been hardened towards others by hurtful words & certain situations, I start to pray for the people that have hurt me. When I pray, I ask God to give me His eyes & to show me how He sees them. I believe the Lord is faithful & will always help you be more life Him.
2. STOP GOSSIPING
This one is a lot easier said than done. But I believe that this can make all the difference, especially in today's society. It's easy to talk about someone or to fire back gossip once it starts, but to show God's love means to turn the other cheek. To show God's love means to examine your words before they leave your lips. To show God's love is to talk about someone as if God, their own mother, and they were sitting right next to you. If it doesn't edify or encourage- think about why you're saying it.
3. SEND A TEXT
Whether it's a sincere compliment, or an encouraging bible verse... a simple text can make someone's day.
4. GIVE A SOCIAL MEDIA SHOUTOUT
I don't care how old or young you are... there's something so nice about someone posting something kind about you for the world to see!

5. ASK OTHERS HOW YOU CAN    PRAY FOR THEM
6. ACTUALLY PRAY FOR THEM &   ASK HOW THEY'RE DOING
This is honestly so simple, but so powerful. There is something truly amazing & uplifting about a person not just asking for prayer requests, but for coming back & checking up weeks later with you to see how the situation has changed.
7. BE INVOLVED.
To me, this goes beyond asking someone what they like to do on the weekends. If you find out someone plays soccer, show up to a game of theirs. If you know someone loves to draw, ask them about their inspirations, their favorite things to draw, or to even draw you something! No matter how big or small, be involved. Showing you care about someone beyond the surface is something Christ did all the time. 
8. INCLUDE OTHERS.
This is a no-brainer, but is often forgotten in a community of girls. Whether it's on purpose or accidentally, leaving people out is a breeding ground for drama & hurt feelings. Even if you know they can't make it to the event, a simple invitation goes a long way. & even if you don't care for the person or if they annoy you... Jesus suffered 6 hours on the cross until His death for you, I think you can handle an annoying friend for an hour or two! (Just sayin').

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