“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
- Romans 9:12
This beautiful verse comes from the passage in Romans speaking on how to put love into action. To love another is not simply to say empty words nor to show a keen interest. There is far greater depth, meaning, and action to it. In context, Romans 12:8-16 reads,
"9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited."
Loving others is not simply the act of showing affection for another individual. It requires that we rebuke that which is evil and embrace all that is good. It mandates action without boasting, sharing in the joy and pains of others, and being kind to those who are not to us. To care for others by putting others before us, we can be genuine in our love, just as Jesus has shown how He loves us. Live in peace and harmony with others. We practice this love with great patience through suffering, and with great passion for our spirituality and faith. It is through the consideration of all these things that we shall be able to put love into action.
Reflection: How can you put love into action this week?
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Thank you, Karyn Lau, for this uplifting article for Christian Calm Radio. Share your love with others and strengthen your devotion to Christ with Christian piano music, beautiful gospel choir music, Christian praise music and Bible audiobooks.