Bold Love.

I'm reading sections of this book Bold Love by Dan Allender, as recommended by several highly respected adults in my life. A couple of things stand out to me enough to share with you:

"We are lovers in a dangerous time. Nothing worth having comes without some kind of fight. We have to kick at the darkness until it bleeds daylight." Quote by Bruce Cochburn.

"I will not live with purpose and joy unless I love; I will not be able to love unless I forgive; and I will not forgive unless my hatred is continually melted by the searing truth and grace of the gospel." p.30

"Most people would rather accept evil as the daily menu than be pronounced orphan and barred from reentering the parental garden. Evil will push us to see if we will bear loss, shame, and hatred. If we are not prepared for the attack, we will wilt under the seduction and mockery of evil. The preparation we must undergo is training in righteousness, where our senses aligned with truth and our hearts have been strengthened by discipline (Hebrews 12:1-12)." p.245

"Parameters must be set... A parameter (or boundary) is any line in human relations that honors separateness and respects individual dignity... Honoring parameters is a reflection of righteousness, or right living in relationships. We honor parameters when we experience the consequences of violating them. A consequence is a warning and/or a small dose of pain that alters others to the violation of love. The consequence, like discipline, is therefore a merciful gift of discomfort, pain, or loss that invites the offender to deal with his harm..." p.245

"Without a doubt, the [person/people] has spread vicious, uncontested lies about you to those who know you. You will be called judgemental, holier-than-thou, arrogant, unbiblical, cruel, heartless. Others will often be watching to see if the [person/people] is correct. It is not your responsibility to counter every lie, but a life that is full of joy and sorrow, tenderness and strength, and brokenness and boldness will discount at least some of the virulent untruths and half-truths told about you." p.253