BibleTrekToday.com

Let love be genuine!

Scripture reading for June 8th: Proverbs 8-10, Psalm 144, Romans 12

Romans 12: 9-17 “Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil: hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. Repay no one evil for evil,, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all.”

Paul encouraged believers to present their bodies as a living sacrifice to God and to renew their minds with His Word. Paul used the last chapters of his letter to explain practically how the Christian walk takes place in a world of evil in a church that has people of all different levels of maturity and faith, including some who are not walking in faith yet! Believers should be known by their genuine love for God and for people. They understand that love shows honor and affection to all people, no matter what level of maturity. Love requires patience with people as they work out their salvation. Love meets people where they are emotionally and shows hospitality. Love blesses and doesn’t curse. Love is humble and doesn’t judge people or seek to harm them an any way but to be a blessing. This walk brings glory to God!

Psalm 144:15 “Blessed are the people to who such blessing fall! Blessed are the people whose God is the Lord!”

Prayer: Father God, I thank You for Your genuine love in Jesus Christ. Without His love, I would not know how to love others or You. Fill me with the Holy Spirit and pour out Your love through me to others in these practical ways taught by Paul to the Romans. I present my body to You and my mind to be renewed to love You better and preach Your Word that Your love may cover all offenses!

Proverbs 10:11-12 “The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence. Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all offenses.”