Love Beyond Conditions, Part 1

### When Love Feels Broken: Finding Strength Within

When love seems to falter and relationships break down, it's often because someone's needs are not being met. This unmet need can lead to feelings of exclusion, rejection, and heartbreak. When someone stops calling or paying attention, it's easy to feel abandoned. If you've ever loved someone and felt betrayed when they turned their attention to someone else, you're not alone. This feeling of exclusion can be devastating, but it's crucial to remember the importance of self-love.

**Self-Love: A Necessary Foundation**

Rejection is a part of life and love. However, it should not devalue you if you understand your worth. Remember, rejection measures your self-love. If you love yourself deeply, rejection won't shatter you. Some people stop eating, sleeping, or functioning when they face rejection. This indicates a lack of self-love. Conversely, if you can keep moving forward after rejection, it shows you have a healthy self-love.

**Biblical Insight: Jesus and Self-Reliance**

The Bible provides profound insights into self-reliance. John 2:23-25 tells us that while Jesus was in Jerusalem, many believed in Him because of His miraculous signs. However, Jesus did not entrust Himself to them because He knew what was in human nature. This passage teaches us to love ourselves and not rely solely on others' affirmation. Paul also advises us to encourage ourselves in the Lord (1 Samuel 30:6).

**Protecting Your Heart**

It's essential to understand the reasons behind love to protect your heart. If someone loves you for specific reasons, those reasons can become a prison. Statements like "I love you because..." or "I love you when..." are dangerous because the conditions can change. True love should not depend on specific attributes or behaviors. Instead, it should be unconditional.

**Love Beyond Conditions**

Many people fall in love with an image or ideal. This can lead to disappointment when reality changes. Physical appearances and circumstances evolve over time. For instance, if someone loves you for your looks, what happens when those looks change? Genuine love looks beyond superficial traits and embraces the person as they are.

**Embrace Change and Imperfections**

Life is full of changes and imperfections. It's unrealistic to expect the person you love to remain the same forever. Physical and emotional changes are natural. For example, if someone loves their partner for their physique, what happens if an accident or illness alters their appearance? True love endures through these changes, focusing on the essence of the person rather than their physical attributes.

**Building Resilience**

To build resilience, focus on nurturing your self-love. Include yourself in your circle of love and acceptance. By doing so, you ensure that you are not solely dependent on others for your happiness. When you love yourself, you are better equipped to handle the ups and downs of relationships.

**Conclusion: Strength in Self-Love**

In conclusion, when love feels broken, remember to love yourself. This self-love acts as a shield against rejection and heartache. The Bible reminds us of the importance of self-reliance and inner strength. True love transcends conditions and embraces change.

**Inspirational Bible Verses:**

1. **John 2:24-25**: "But Jesus would not entrust himself to them, for he knew all people. He did not need any testimony about mankind, for he knew what was in each person."

2. **1 Samuel 30:6**: "David was greatly distressed, for the men spoke of stoning him; each one was bitter in spirit because of his sons and daughters. But David found strength in the Lord his God."

Type amen and like.