First Corinthians 13:7 gives us a clear picture of what it means to really love people. I can honestly say that obedience to this Scripture has always been a challenge for me. My grandmother cautioned me at an early age about trusting to quickly, she wanted me to be suspicious and to distrust everyone, but meditating on the characteristics of love and realizing that love always believes the best has helped me to develop a Christ-like-mindset. The word teaches us God's unconditional love as it relates to Agape Love, Eros Love and Phileos Love and Storge Love.
Therefore, suspicion works against the very qualities necessary for Godly relationships. Trust and faith bring joy to life and help relationships grow to their maximum potential, but suspicion cripples a relationship and usually destroys it.
Now, it's true that people aren't perfect, and sometimes our trust can be taken advantage of, but overall, the benefits of always seeing the best in people will far outweigh any negative experiences.
If you struggle with suspicion, remember today that we have the wonderful Holy Spirit in us to remind us when our thoughts are going in the wrong direction. Let's ask Him to turn our suspicious thoughts into thoughts of love.
Prayer Starter: God, I understand now that always distrusting and being suspicious of others is damaging to my relationships. God pour out your wisdom, knowledge and understanding to help me be a better discerner of others. Show me how to open my heart to others and to believe the best in ever circumstance without being taken advantage of in the process.
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