On Sunday morning, my pastor, Tim Barton, {Tim number three} used the phrase "love without leverage."
A lever is a simple machine. It’s something you use to pry against an immovable object. It’s something you use to try to change the placement of the item in question. It makes moving things easier.
When we use leverage against people, basically we’re trying to get them to change to accommodate our way of thinking or our desires.
Common leverage points that we humans use are: guilt, shame, peer pressure, blackmail and even brute force.
In this life, if we think we are in a loving relationship but find ourselves trying to change the other person, something is wrong. If I’m using some sort of leverage, some sort of guilt to try to change how you think of what you do or where you live or any number of things, if I’m using leverage, it’s not love.
Love doesn’t try to change people. Love simply accepts people where they’re at.
When you love someone you love them as they are and you cherish what they are. You don’t try to change them into your image or likeness.
In this life, if we think we are in a loving relationship but find ourselves trying to change the other person, something is wrong. If I’m using some sort of leverage, some sort of guilt to try to change how you think of what you do or where you live or any number of things, if I’m using leverage, it’s not love.
Love doesn’t try to change people. Love simply accepts people where they’re at.
When you love someone you love them as they are and you cherish what they are. You don’t try to change them into your image or likeness.
Love without leverage. Try it.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
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Sherri Swanson and I are leading a trip to New Zealand January 30-Feb 12, 2027
If you want to sign up, you can use my host number 17768 or Sherri's 57707
Here is a link for more information
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