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“Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other.” Romans 12:9-10 (NLT)

We didn’t have much money when I was growing up. Instead of Trix, we ate Circus Balls cereal. Instead of Rice Krispies, we ate Crispy Rice. Instead of Apple Jacks, we ate Apple O’s. When we visited my aunt and uncle, they served us name-brand soda, cereal, chips … even real Oreos, not Hydrox. On those trips, I was confronted with the truth: genuine beats knock-off every time.

Our key verse delivers the same truth. As believers in Christ, Paul tells us to “really love” others, not just fake it. Easy to talk about, but tricky to live out. In this upcoming season of holiday parties and get-togethers, what are some practical ways we can “really love” others?

Show interest: How did you meet your husband? What led you to your current job? What do you like to do for fun? When you were young, what did you want to be when you grew up? If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be? Asking an open-ended question (not a yes or no answer) is a great way to show others we care.

Listen: We’ve all been there. Someone asks you a question but their attention wanders before you can fully answer the question. In that moment, do you feel loved? Let’s make the effort to listen without preparing the next comment or question in our heads.

Pray: How can I pray for you? The ultimate act of service is bringing another’s requests before the Lord. Praying for others may lead us to action, but the service of prayer is so valuable all on its own. Just as a seed planted in the ground—watered and soaking up the sun—grows, so prayer offered on behalf of another grows a seed of love for that person in us.

Remember: The next time you see that person you have shown an interest in, listened to, and prayed for, ask about something they shared with you. Committing something of the previous conversation to memory speaks volumes of the honor and value you place on that person.

Putting these principles into action will not be easy, but genuine beats knock-off every time. Are you ready to challenge yourself to “really love” others?

“Especially during the holidays when we are surrounded by friends, family, and coworkers at parties and get-togethers, Lord, guide us in how we can “really love” others.”

For His Glory

Tammy Randlett (http://staletoast.com)
TRBC Women’s Life