I was reminded last week of the
decades-long discussion of the “Five Love Languages” as outlined by Gary Chapman—words of
affirmation, acts of service, receiving gifts, quality time, and
physical touch—reminding us that we don’t always “hear” love
in the way that others may choose to express it. Charles Stanley has
a similar list of “Ten Terms for Effective Service” in his recent
book Emotions,
and I think it’s worth sharing this extended quote as reminders of
ways we can show love to one another (plus this just happens to go along with Sunday's sermon):
"1.
Verbally
Tell
people what you admire and appreciate about them—they need to hear
it. In fact, many of the individuals you know may be under terrible
pressure and emotional distress and need the encouragement. So remind
them of God’s love and provision, and convey your concern for their
well-being.
2.
Physically
You
may come into contact with people who are anxious for someone to lend
them a hand. Don’t turn them away. Often what is needed is a caring
hug or a simple act of service. Help them in the name of Jesus (Matt.
5:41-42).
3.
Patiently
You
know how hard it is to change your thinking when your emotions are
out of control. It may take a long time to get through to some people
with the truth of God’s Word. But instead of giving up, continue to
pray for them faithfully. You’ll see it is absolutely worth it when
they finally embrace His love and follow Him in obedience.
4.
Gratefully
The
truth is, you will find that some individuals are challenging to
minister to—their emotional bondage is incredibly deep and their
defenses are extremely difficult to overcome. Ask the Father to fill
you with His love for them and help you to understand their burdens.
Ask Him to fill your heart with gratefulness, then thank Him for the
opportunity to encourage that hurting soul.
5.
Generously
When
was the last time you gave freely to another person simply because
you cared? Remember, God blesses us so that we might bless others.
Keep your eyes open for ways to show people His provision through
sacrificial giving and express your affection to them with all
generosity (1 Tim. 6:18).
6.
Tenderly
Now
that you know the warning signs of fear, rejection, bitterness,
guilt, and despair; be sensitive to other people’s emotions and pay
careful attention to what they tell you. Many people have come to
know Jesus as their Savior because a friend took the time to listen
to them and genuinely care about their concerns.
7.
Forgivingly
When
you begin to feel angry or resentful toward the people the Lord has
called you to encourage, remember how many times God has forgiven
you. Always show compassion. You may not be able to control how
others treat you, but you can choose to respond to them in a manner
that honors the Father.
8.
Devotedly
When
you are dedicated to someone, you support and defend them when they
face adversity and their emotions are especially raw. You don’t
abandon them when challenges or problems arise. Therefore, stand by
others in their time of need. They will appreciate your loyalty, and
your friendship will go a long way in helping them heal.
9.
Cheerfully
Be
sure to stay positive and remind others of all the Lord’s promises
to them—especially when their emotions are out of control or
particularly negative. Through Christ, there is always hope,
regardless of the circumstances. Do your best to help others cling to
that truth whenever they go through trials or experience suffering.
10.
Honorably
Nothing
blesses a person more than when you walk in the center of God’s
will and allow Him to work through you. Therefore, always make your
relationship with the Father your first priority. He will guide you
in how to best minister to and bless those around you" (pp. 283-286).
“Beloved, let us love one
another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God
and knows God.” -1 John 4:7