It's not just us who are loved

‘But we ought always to than God for you, brothers loved by the Lord, because from the beginning God chose you to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the truth.’ 2 Thessalonians 2.13
 
Life would sometimes be a lot easier if it were not for people! You might have an inspiring time with God, finding great consolation in his love for you, and then go out to face the world. At that point life can very quickly take a turn for the worse. It’s not just people ‘out there’ who seem intent on being difficult; sometimes it is those people closer to home who cause you problems, such as family members or other Christians.
 
The truth is that we are all chosen and loved by God. Today’s verse brings us up short by reminding us of this.  You are his dearly loved child, but so is everyone else, even those you find difficult. 
 
Criticizing and judging others is a very easy route to take, so before entertaining unkind thoughts about anyone, it is a good practice to hold them in your mind and remind yourself that although you may find them difficult, they are loved by God to such an extent that Jesus chose to die for them.
 
It may be that even as you read these words, there is someone who comes to mind. Think about them and ‘see’ them as deeply loved by God.

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