2nd Watch - Love, Acceptance, Forgiveness (Week 12)

I heard that the TJMS re-aired the interview I did with Jacque Reid about the campaign this past Friday. A hearty welcome to any newcomers on this journey of renewal!

 

As we wrap up these six weeks of talking about love, acceptance, and forgiveness a question comes to mind. How are you with “receiving” love?

 

When someone shows you love or an expression of love, are you able to receive it? Or do you immediately begin to wonder why a person is showing you kindness? There has to be a motive behind it, right?

 

You know, this love thing is a two-way street. Although so many of us are ready and willing to give love, we sometimes have a problem with receiving it. Sadly, the reason for this may be as simple as feeling slighted most of our lives so we want to give, give...give. But there is a two-way blessing in receiving from others. 

 

Question for you:

 

1. If love came into your life from a man capable and willing to give you all that love embodies, could you receive it if it’s not packaged like your fantasy?

 

This is something to think about. On the other hand, say the “fantasy” comes along…

 

2. How much of yourself are you willing to give him while he takes what you give and helps himself to even more (your self-esteem, demanding unprotected sex, etc.)?

 

Well, this week I challenge you to show yourself some love. Are you able to receive love from yourself? Remember towards the end of the 1st Watch I asked if you loved yourself and how do you know? That second question is a tough one (How do you know?). It’s easy to answer “yes” to loving yourself, but what measure do you use to confirm that?  

 

Here are a few things to consider:

  1. Do you protect yourself? (That is do you make wise choices sexually, do you protect your mind from unhealthy thoughts and your heart from destructive emotions?)
  2. Do you delight in the truth? (Do you look at the facts and then make decisions, or do you follow your desire to do something you know in your gut is wrong.)
  3. Do you keep records of your wrongs? (Remember, forgive yourself and keep it moving…)
  4. Are you an amazing person all by yourself or do you need a man to validate this?
  5. Is all of your worth tied up in your looks, the way you dress, how much clothing you have, what car you drive and where you live?

These are common things that trap us. Things that if not corrected can cause superficial feelings of self-worth, believing that someone or something can define you. Because many times when these things are taken away, there goes the self-worth along with it.

 

It’s only when we love ourselves that we know how to love others. Remember the second commandment: ...Love your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:37-40).

 

So, let’s get to a place where we expect great things to come our way simply because that’s what we give off. It’s called reaping what you sow. When you sow love, it comes back to you. Receive it! You’re worthy! 

 

Exercise: Wake up each day this week with a heart of expectancy. Get excited about your life! Dust off some of those dreams that lie dormant in your heart and make a list of short and long term goals. Think about what you want for your life, pray for wisdom (God gives it freely) and courage, and make a plan. Show yourself some love!


1 Corinthians 13:4-8

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails….

Truly love yourself! We'll get into that sex thang next week... Fasten your seatbelt. 

Posted by Icen at 3/21/2010 7:49 PM
Categories: Love and Forgiveness
Tags: black men in america Jacque Reid erotic expressions single women campaign take 6 take 6 blog Tom Joyner Morning Show
 

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