What comes to mind when you think about, ‘love always protects’? You probably think about protecting your children, spouse, pets, family, and friends. Those are all important to protect, but what about ourselves?

For decades I thought I was great at protecting myself, simply because I was still alive. My life showed a different story. I was surrounded by vile and evil people who caused me irreparable harm. I was constantly being used and abused in one form or another. I never listened to my loved one’s warnings, I never listened to my gut, and I kept God at a distance.

Proverbs 4:23 says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it”. For me, this is what that looks like. I set boundaries for myself and my relationships. I spend time with God, every single day. I don’t go clubbing, or bar hopping. I don’t do drugs, I don’t get drunk. I don’t spend time with people who do. I don’t watch movies that I feel are evil, like the exorcist. I don’t spend too much time with negative people, it’s contagious. I don’t listen to disgusting music that artists like Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion put out. I bring in what I want to put out in the world. I focus on positive things, because I want to be a positive influence. These changes are difficult at times, but they have brought me peace and comfort. I am closer to myself, God, and my loved ones. I am safe, and loved.

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects