Love in Action

The day after the world celebrates love, I’m bringing you some Biblical wisdom on how we do that the rest of the days of the year. These words are not mine, they are a man named Paul’s.

“Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.

Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.

On the contrary: ‘If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.’

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

Romans 12 NIV

Now, that is a loooong list of how to live out love. What I plan to do, and my challenge to you, is to read this every morning for the rest of the month. Then let your heart and eyes settle on one statement to apply to your day. Before you know it, we will be loving as we were created to, as close to Jesus as possible.