Romans 12:9 – Verse of the Day 9/18/13

Romans 12:9-21 contains a series of instructions for believers as we seek to love one another in the church, and this verse about sincere love sets the stage for these instructions.  The word “genuine” is a good translation of a word that literally means “without hypocrisy.”  In Paul’s time, Greek actors were called “hypokrites,” and his point is that our love should not be an act but rather something that grows genuinely out of our hearts as an expression of who Christ has made us and redeemed us to be.

As you pray, ask the Lord to give you a heart of genuine love for Himself and others.  Consider whether there are times when you struggle to love others genuinely or whether there are specific people that you struggle to love genuinely.  As you reflect on the extravagance of God’s love for us expressed in the sacrifice of His son, ask the Lord to give you a similar heart to love others as He has loved us.