Day 160 "Let It Simmer!"

How often is it that we say something only to realize just as the words have left our lips that we shouldn't have said what we just said? The pain, the hurt, is seen in the eyes of the one we are speaking to. The body language reflects that our words have just hit their mark. The damage has been done. The words unretrievable. We have just acted in the realm of

of our own selfishness, placing our own interest above the interests of another. At least for the moment, love was abandoned.

"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.

It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of

wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices wit the truth. It always protects,

always trust, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails." 1 Corinthians 13:4-8

There is the benefit of letting things simmer. By its own definition, to stay just below the boiling point, simmering allows things not to boil over. In addition, some things are enhanced by simmering-cooking for example. But when I think of simmer, I think more in terms of giving something time, time to let love guide our action and our words. It is why I am so strongly in favor of seizing the moment, to be in control of the moment and not let the moment get the best of me. Love helps me do that. I would be the first to recognize that it isn't always easy to do. But these two verses has had tremendous affect upon me. One tells me of the love and grace that God has for me. The other motivates and inspires me to extend such love and grace to others.

"Perfect love cast out all fear." 1 John 4:18

"We love because he first loved us." 1 John 4:19

Sadly, some of us have gone through life without love whatsoever. And if you are one of them, be encouraged and lift your head up heavenward. There, you will find and discover a love that loves you just as you are and desires to have a relationship with you. Grow in your understanding of this love that God has for you. Give it time to let it simmer in your spirit. If you do, you will find yourself having a new identity, one in which you will discover a new ability to let the things that previously bothered you time to simmer long enough for God's best to take over. And when you do, the power of love will manifest itself.

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"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so

you must love one another." John 13:34

Take the time to let things simmer in your mind and heart before acting. You will

be glad you did.

In his love, see you tomorrow....

"Carpe Momentum in Love" (Seize the moment in love)