Love in Action
"Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality." - Romans 12:9-13 (NIV)
Scripture Reading: Romans 12:9-21 (NIV)
In Paul’s letter to the Romans in chapter 12, he outlines practical ways to live out the love of Christ. He calls us to genuine love that is expressed through actions—honoring others, being patient, and sharing with those in need. This passage emphasizes that love is more than an emotion; it’s an intentional act of service and compassion lived out through every relationship we have.
When we connect Paul's teachings to the concept of the Five Love Languages by Dr. Gary Chapman—words of affirmation, acts of service, receiving gifts, quality time, and physical touch—we see that love can be expressed in diverse and meaningful ways (not just with our spouse or significant other, but with our children, family, friends, and co-workers too). Each language provides a unique opportunity to demonstrate sincere love:
1. Words of Affirmation: Just as Paul encourages us to honor one another, we can use our words to build up and encourage those around us. A kind word or a heartfelt compliment can go a long way in showing love.
2. Acts of Service: Serving others with zeal and spiritual fervor is a powerful expression of love. Whether it’s helping a neighbor with chores or volunteering in the community, acts of service reflect Christ’s love in action.
3. Receiving Gifts: Sharing with those in need and practicing hospitality can involve giving thoughtful gifts. These gestures, however small, can show that we care and that we’re thinking of others.
4. Quality Time: Being present and spending quality time with loved ones is an important aspect of love. Engaging in meaningful conversations and activities together fosters deeper connections.
5. Physical Touch: Appropriate physical touch, such as a warm hug or a comforting hand on the shoulder, can communicate love and support in a profound way.
As we strive to live out the teachings of Romans 12:9-21, let’s be mindful of the different love languages we can use to communicate God’s desire to be in relationships with everyone, even the most unlikely among us, and seek to express sincere love through our actions. In doing so, we reflect the heart of Christ and build a community rooted in genuine care and compassion.
May you be inspired to love genuinely and find creative ways to express this love every day.
Don’t Know Your Top Love Language?
Take this quiz to discover your primary love language, what it means, and how you can use it to better connect with your loved ones.
Reflection Questions:
- Which of the Five Love Languages resonates most with you, and how can you use it to express love more genuinely to others?
- Reflect on a recent act of love or kindness you received. How did it impact you, and how can you pass it forward?
- In what ways can you practice hospitality and share with those in need in your community?
- How can you cultivate spiritual fervor and keep your zeal for serving the Lord and others?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your unconditional love and the example of Christ’s love in action. Help us to love sincerely and to honor one another above ourselves. Guide us to express love through our words, actions, and presence with one another. May we find joy in serving others and be patient and faithful in prayer. Open our hearts to practice hospitality and share with those in need. Fill us with Your Spirit, so that our love may reflect Your love. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.