Scripture to Read: Romans 12:9–13
God gives us some great commands today that we must practice daily to shine brightly for Him. First, God tells us to be sure our love is real. There are too many “pretenders” in this world who use others for their selfish motives. God tells us that we should never be that kind of person. God also tells us to hate what is evil and to cling tightly to all that is good. Evil abounds in this world and God hates it all; that is why He tells us to make sure we don’t cling to something that is not from Him. Though God told us to make sure our love is real in Romans 12:10, He comes right back to us loving each other with genuine affection. Along with our genuine affection, we are to find it a delight to give others honor far above ourselves. Remember, God knows our hearts and what we struggle with, so He’s showing us what He expects to see from us since we belong to Him. Then God tells us not to be lazy but to serve Him enthusiastically. We don’t serve our Lord from obligation; we serve our Lord from His sweet invitation to be a part of His work. It’s a privilege to serve our Lord. Finally, God tells us in Romans 12:12–13 to rejoice in hope, for Christ is our hope—to persevere in tribulation, to be devoted to prayer, to give to the needs of the saints, and to practice hospitality. Thankfully, we don’t lack ways to serve our Lord.
Challenge & Application
· What areas of service do you need to begin to get involved in that are listed in today’s devotion?
· How are you currently fulfilling the areas of service God showed us today in Romans 12:9–13?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!