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Let Love Be Genuine
Rod ShimabukuroLet 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. Romans 12:9-11
The turn of Romans is chapter 12. Paul’s instructs the Christians to live a life of sacrificial worship. There’s a connection to Jesus having sacrificed His life (preceding chapters) so we can live out our lifestyle of worship, as a sacrifice to Him. Paul begins describing the life actions and character of the believer living out their faith. Thus... let love be genuine...!
Can my love be disingenuous? Can I fake a love that smells hypocritical? I’ve wrestled with this in my heart - especially when the person God is calling me to love is someone I don’t want to love. The person who’s hurt me in some way. The hypocritical Christian who wants to outperform their fellow family for attention. The leader who leads a ministry well but not the people. But yet - I’m responsible for my heart - for love to be genuine as from the heart of Jesus.
I want to love genuinely, by hating the evil hypocrisy in me, hold onto good and love with affection - even showing honor with zeal and a fervent spirit - as unto the Lord - serving Him!!
So today - I yield again to You King Jesus. The God of love and grace, to help me, refuel me with Your love - of Your love never fails. I recognize that I must continue to choose to surrender my heart, life, time to be willing to serve - even these whom “bother me.” Thank you for not giving up on me!
