Loving everybody, as guided by biblical principles, is a noble but often challenging endeavor. There are several reasons why it can be difficult for people to love everybody in a biblical sense, particularly when they encounter the following obstacles:

1. Lack of Understanding the True Meaning of Love:

One of the primary reasons people find it difficult to love everybody biblically is the misunderstanding of the true meaning of love as outlined in the Bible. Love, according to biblical teachings, extends beyond mere emotions or sentiments. It is a selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional commitment to the well-being of others. In 1 Corinthians 13:4–7, the Bible describes love as patient, kind, not envious, not proud, not self-seeking, not easily angered, and always protecting and trusting. This profound definition of love requires individuals to put others before themselves and seek their welfare. However, many people may have a limited or superficial understanding of love, often mistaking it for affection, attraction, or attachment. Without a deep comprehension of the selfless nature of biblical love, individuals may struggle to extend love to those who are different from them or whom they may not naturally like.

2. Confusion Between “Like” and “Love”:

Another common challenge is the tendency to conflate the words “like” and “love.” People often reserve the term “love” for those they feel a deep emotional connection to, such as family members, close friends, or romantic partners. In contrast, they use “like” to describe their feelings toward acquaintances or strangers. This distinction between “like” and “love” can lead to a selective application of love, where individuals extend love only to those they have an affectionate relationship with, while merely liking others. Biblically, the command to love everybody doesn’t come with the condition of personal liking. In Matthew 5:44, Jesus instructs his followers to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them. This requires a level of love that transcends personal preferences and emotions. The challenge arises when individuals are unable or unwilling to expand the scope of their love beyond those they naturally like.

3. Unforgiveness in Their Hearts:

Unforgiveness and bitterness in one’s heart can act as significant barriers to loving everybody biblically. In Matthew 6:14–15, Jesus emphasizes the importance of forgiveness by stating, “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” Unforgiveness can stem from past hurts, betrayals, or conflicts. Holding on to past grievances can create emotional barriers that make it challenging to extend love to those who have wronged or hurt them. Unresolved conflicts and unforgiving attitudes may hinder individuals from embracing the commandment to love everybody, as loving those who have wronged them seems counterintuitive.

Conclusion:

Overcoming these obstacles to loving everybody biblically often requires self-awareness, personal growth, and a conscious effort to practice love as an unconditional and inclusive emotion. It involves an intentional commitment to understand and embrace the profound definition of love presented in the Bible, to distinguish between “like” and “love,” and to extend forgiveness and grace to others. The journey toward loving everybody biblically is one of growth, transformation, and the embodiment of the selfless love exemplified by Jesus Christ in his teachings and actions.