Loving by Example

When children naturally love people, they show more signs of compassion and seem to extend grace and mercy to others. But how do I get them to love others. I'm convinced that a big part of that is by my example. But how can I love others?

Colossians 3:12 says, "Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved..."

I have been called, made holy and am loved by God, the Most High Creator. Knowing that I can love others.

Colossians 3:12 "Put on then... compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another..."

Because I have been called and made holy and beloved, then I can put on a compassionate heart, kindness, humility, meekness and patience, and bear with others. I can do that when others haven't been compassionate, kind, humble, meek, patient, or forbearing with me.

Colossians 3:13 "...and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive."

Because the Lord has forgiven me greatly, I can keep from complaining against others and forgive.

Practically, what does that look like? Compassion and kindness looks like a hug when another is down or broken, physically being there, feeling others' pains.  Humility and meekness is able to say I'm sorry and swallow pride, even when things may not be completely your fault. Patience and forbearing is understanding that we aren't all alike. We can dwell with others in unity and accept petty differences with a cheerful heart. (You know, I'm not talking about sinful practices.)

The main way to be able to live out Colossians three is knowing how I was called, made holy and beloved.

Romans 5:8 "but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us."

As I follow Christ's example, my children will see me love others, follow my example and love others. If I don't love, my children won't either.