Once we know better, we do better. And perhaps it’s only natural to share what we learn to help others do the same. But to truly practice love we must ensure we’re seeking to advance the good of others and not merely our own agenda for them, however well meaning. And this requires the wisdom to humbly accept we each have our own stories of maturing.
To be sure, we’ve all been blessed with moments of new insights that have changed our life for the better. It might be a simple life hack that makes some routine chore easier, a supplement that improves our health, or a theological insight that infuses our life and relationships with more grace and love.
Whatever it looks like, it’s easy to assume in these moments that what works for us will work for others as well. And certainly universal principles will hold true for everyone. But wisdom is needed in their application. And in our zeal we might miss the fact that not everyone is at the same point in their story that we are in ours. The insights we’re applying in this season might not be for everyone else.
On the one hand, we eagerly want to share the good news we’ve learned with others. But love still demands we enter their world to consider things from their point of view. And this often requires us to consider how universal truths might be applied in this season of their life. For instance, promoting a healthy lifestyle doesn’t require everyone to be on our same diet. Likewise, spiritual practices currently beneficial to us don’t need to be pushed onto everyone else either.
We become a well-meaning bully when we believe everyone should adopt the same practices that have blessed us.
In the end, generously share what you’ve learned with others. But don’t be puffed up by the knowledge you’ve gained. Continue practicing love by considering the best interest of others and not just what has worked for you.
Photo by Riccardo Annandale on Unsplash
