Loving with a Whole Heart

Have you ever loved someone with your whole heart but the same love was not returned?

Perhaps the person portrayed a measure of love but didn’t love you fully. Maybe there was even some betrayal. How can you love someone when there is a question of trust and commitment? Sometimes it’s all a misunderstanding. Communication is key; we must express our doubts and fears. People need people in their lives, and we are to search and seek after loving relationships. Our Heavenly Father and our loved ones need us to love them with a whole heart.

The greatest example of love is God. The Bible tells us that God is love. I remember learning in college that when someone loves someone, they naturally give of themselves. They give gifts, as well. When I first started dating my wife, Rachel, in Bible college, I remember taking flowers to her dorm and picking out a nice friendship ring for her in Port au Prince. God gives us many gifts. God gave His own son to save the world. Isn’t it amazing to know that nothing can separate us from the love of God (Romans 8:39)? God doesn’t change His mind regarding us. He has our best interest in mind. God is long-suffering with us and not willing for any to perish. In 2 Peter 3:9 we read, “...He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”

It’s comforting to know we can come to God, and He’ll accept us and love us. There is also no sin too great that God will not forgive (Hebrews 8:12). We need to keep clinging to God; He is holding on to us. “For You have been my help, and in the shadow of Your wings I will sing for joy. My soul clings to You; Your right hand upholds me.” Psalm 63:7-8

When we forgive those who have offended us, we love with a whole heart. The Bible tells us that love does not keep track of offenses. We are to forgive those who have wronged us, but this can be hard. I believe we can keep loving a person even if the relationship isn’t the best. Forgiveness is the key to everything. None of us are perfect. We live in an imperfect world, and need to trust the people we love. God remains true and pure. Our greatest hope is to live with God for eternity.

Loving with a whole heart begins by loving yourself. Frequently, I neglect myself. It takes time to eat well and exercise. I often put my work responsibilities first. The other day, I just felt like I needed some rest and enjoyed sleeping in my grandfather’s leather chair here in Haiti before addressing my work. Afterwards, I took a cold shower and enjoyed lying in the sun for a while. I felt refreshed and renewed.

Jeremiah 29:13 tells us we will find the Lord when we seek Him with our whole heart. God knows our hearts even before we say a word. We cannot fool God. I have learned to be intimate with God, and I ask Him to direct every area of my life—including my relationships. I encourage my friends to put God first in their lives. Our Christian faith is the foundation for our lives. ~Charlie DeTellis