Recently I’ve had to face an important element of my faith journey that my religious upbringing and theological studies did not prepare me for.
I was faithfully taught about the attributes and essence of God. I was taught about salvation through Christ alone. I was taught about sin and holiness… and I was also taught how my beliefs made me different from others who did not share the same ones… However, I was never taught how to love.
Sadly, I witnessed many of my former spiritual leaders acting un-lovingly more often than showing grace. I struggle to find a reference point as to what love really should look like. Especially, since Jesus stated that all of the law is summed up in loving God and others.
Currently I’m in the process of re-defining how love will be displayed in my life. It’s always been easy to love people who treat me well and that I have things in common with. However, stepping outside of this circle is one of the biggest challenges that I’ve ever faced. However, that’s exactly what Jesus did when he stepped into earth as a child. I was once told that the Christian goal is maturity, and maturity looks like Jesus. I’m determined to follow His footsteps. I invite you to pray for me and join me in this challenge.
Unapologetically yours,
John Garay
John Eli is a transformational life coach who has spent over 15 years mentoring individuals in life skills, career transitions, and through organizational change. His resume includes pastoral care, behavioral health, and higher-education advising. From an early age, John recognized that God created him to bring hope, healing and encouragement to others. He is currently walking out his purpose by helping others confront, and work through, any negative self-talk that keeps them from living life to the fullest. His ministry includes blogging, speaking, and personal development coaching. He currently lives in Chandler, Arizona with his wife, mini-schnauzer and an antique piano whom he calls, “Betty.”
To schedule a coaching session with John Eli click here.
John Eli Garay, MBA/MS, LAC 
Amen. Right there with you! Learning to love the seemingly ‘unlovable’, when it doesn’t feel good, when it stretches me, when I don’t necessarily ‘feel’ like it, when it’s not based off performance or what someone is or isn’t doing has been a challenge for me. My greatest test in this area is now in my newlywed marriage. It has revealed insufficiencies within me in that area and, I too, strive to get it right and just love! Outside of marriage the same is required of me. Also, a challenge when you are wronged, hurt, misused, etc. A work in progress too. Thanks for sharing and I am all in for this challenge!
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Yes. I speak blessing over you and your new marriage. May the presence, joy, and love always be found in your union and home. Blessings!
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Amen. Thanks so much!
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It is funny how that is what we were told to do. Love God and love people, Love God. Go into the world tell them. But, this love thing and understanding how much we are loved seems to be the last to take. I am with you brother. Keep pressing on John!
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Amen John!
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Yes, loving the unlovely is the real challenge. Being ok with an unwashed person hugging us. Reaching out to those who seem unworthy to us. Jesus challenges us every day and every day we have to struggle to be like him.
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We have this pesky flesh that we have to fight on the daily. 😦
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Love this! Stick to the Word! Praying for you Brother!
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Thank you. 🙌
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Thank you for sharing. Jesus is the perfect example of love. – Letstalkaboutpersonaldevelopment.blog
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