Genuine Love

Daily Reading: Romans 12-13

Scripture Focus: Let love be genuine. (Romans 12.9a)

Devotional Thought: Last week I got a call from 'Emily'. She was so excited to talk to me! As a matter of fact, she was so happy that she couldn't stop talking. She was thrilled that I had stayed in one of their resorts in the past and that - can you believe it? - I qualified to receive 75% off at a stay in one of their beautiful resorts in Orlando! I tried to get her to stop so I could politely say, "I'm not interested," but she was like the Energizer Bunny. I think you can guess how the conversation ended.

Later, I thought about that call, about how Emily genuinely sounded excited for me. But, she didn't even know me. Her excitement wasn't genuine. I don't fault her, she was just trying to earn a living, but I wondered to myself, "Do I come across that way to people? Am I genuine?"

The Apostle Paul told the Christians in Rome to "let love be genuine" (Romans 12.9). I wonder what they thought that meant.

What do you think it means? What's genuine love look like? Is it gushy and sentimental? Is it tough and demanding? We don't have to wonder about what Paul thought genuine love looked like. In the remainder of the chapter and on into chapter 13, Paul lays it on the line: abhor evil, show honor, be patient, be constant, contribute to needs, bless those who curse you...

As you read the rest of Romans 12 and 13 ask yourself, "Is my love like this?" I think you will find along with me that we could spend the rest of our lives honing our genuine love skills. As a matter of fact, why don't we do just that!

Prayer: Lord Jesus, if I ever wonder what genuine love looks like, all I need to do is look at you. Thank you for your love! Help me to love others as you have loved me - with a genuine love. Amen.

Psalm of the Day: 7 Lift up your heads, O gates! And be lifted up, O ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. 8 Who is this King of glory? The LORD, strong and mighty, the LORD, mighty in battle! 9 Lift up your heads, O gates! And lift them up, O ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. 10 Who is this King of glory? The LORD of hosts, he is the King of glory! Selah (Psalms 24:7-10)