FAITH: Comes by Hearing the Word of God
Romans 12:10: Be kindly affectionate (devoted) to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another.
FAITH: Comes by Studying the Word of God
Next, Paul mentions love’s commitment in the Church: “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves” (v. 10). The words “Be devoted” are the translation of a Greek word which combines the words for friendship love and family love. A more helpful translation is, “Be devoted with warm family affection to one another in brotherly love.” Family-type devotion to one another is more than friendship. Such love involves commitment like that experienced in good families.
The natural outcome will be then, as the last half of the verse commands, to “Honor one another above yourselves” (v. 10b). Healthy families have a mutual respect for one another. They take pleasure in the elevation of other family members. 1
FAITH: Comes by Obeying the Word of God
But concerning brotherly love you have no need that I should write to you, for you yourselves are taught by God to love one another. 1 Thessalonians 4:9
Are you bound up by your hurt feelings of unmet expectations from others? A devoted brotherly love is only possible when we surrender everything to Him. Loving Him with all of our heart, soul, mind, strength is where a pure devoted love begins.
FAITH: Comes by Experiencing the Transforming Work of God
May our love for others be more abundant than our personal insecurities.
FAITH: Comes by Praying with the Word of God
Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.” 1 Peter 5:5
Dear Father, may my pursuits be governed by a surrendered love for You and others.
1. Hughes, R. K. (1991). Romans: righteousness from heaven (p. 229). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books.
