grace in motion

Matthew 22:39

Grace and peace be with you right now friend! Let’s be honest—some people are easier to love than others. We all have that one person in our lives who seems to have the spiritual gift of testing our patience. Maybe it’s a coworker who thinks they’re the expert on everything. Or a neighbor who insists on blasting music at 6 AM. Or even that family member who gives unsolicited advice at every holiday gathering.

And yet… Jesus didn’t give us a loophole. There’s no fine print that says, "Love your neighbor—unless they really annoy you." Nope. He gave it to us straight:

Even when they’re difficult. Even when they don’t deserve it. Even when you’d rather love them from a very safe distance.

So, how do we love like Jesus when it’s hard you say?

loving difficult people like Jesus

Loving others doesn’t mean becoming a doormat. It’s about extending grace without sacrificing wisdom. Here’s how:

1. Pray for Them (Even When You Don’t Feel Like It)

Jesus knew Judas would betray Him, yet He still washed his feet. Talk about next-level love. Prayer isn’t about changing others—it’s about changing us. It softens our hearts and aligns us with God’s perspective.

Try this: Start by praying for patience and compassion before praying for them to “get it together.”

2. Set Boundaries with Love

Jesus loved everyone, but He also had boundaries. (He didn’t let the Pharisees wreck His peace) Loving someone doesn’t mean tolerating toxic behavior. You can show kindness and protect your well-being.

Try this: If a relationship is draining you, communicate with clarity and kindness. “I care about you, but I need some space right now.”

3. Choose Grace Over Retaliation

When people hurt us, our first instinct is often to retaliate (or at least be a little passive-aggressive). But Jesus calls us to respond with grace instead of reacting in anger.

Try this: The next time someone frustrates you, pause. Breathe. Respond with kindness instead of sarcasm. (Yes, even in that group chat.)

a story of choosing love over conflict

A few years ago, I had a neighbor who was... challenging. She complained about everything—the sound of my car, my guests, even my Christmas lights. I’ll be honest—at first, I wanted to avoid her entirely. But God kept nudging me to love her.

So, I started small. I smiled more. I asked how she was doing. I brought her cookies one day (which, to my shock, she actually accepted). Over time, her icy demeanor softened. And one day, she opened up about her loneliness.

Loving her wasn’t easy, but it was worth it. Sometimes, people are difficult because they’re hurting. And love—real, Christ-like love—can be the bridge to healing.

loving others may not be easy, but it’s always worth it

Jesus didn’t say loving people would be convenient. But He did say it would be a command—one that reflects His love for us.

So, who in your life needs grace today? Who’s the sandpaper person God is using to refine your patience? (We all have at least one!)

Love is more than a feeling—it’s a choice. So, let’s choose love, even when it’s hard. Because that’s what Jesus does for us every single day. Amen!

in harmony,

nancy

Pulse Check:

Write down the name of one “sandpaper person” in your life and commit to praying for them every day this week.