Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. – (Romans 12:10, NIV)
Love each other in a way that makes you feel close like brothers and sisters. And give each other more honor than you give yourself. – (Romans 12:10, ERV)
Live in true devotion to one another, loving each other as sisters and brothers. Be first to honor others by putting them first. – (Romans 12:10, VOICE)
Devotion is an intentional commitment and choice of loyalty. It is willingly choosing to love, even when love is difficult. As we do so, we discover what we appreciate about others and find it easier to honor those around us. To love and feel close like sisters and brothers comes when love and devotion are given continuously over time. That sense of familial closeness can come with both blood family and chosen family. God places people in our lives to love this way, and grants us community to count on if we are willing to invest and be purposeful with our people. I am beyond blessed with the different people that God has placed around me throughout my life. He brings people on purpose with a purpose, and shows us more of His heart for us. Incredibly, He uses us to be those people to others as well. The more willing and available we are, the better we can love with devotion and intention, and honor others rather than focus on ourselves. May we ever seek the Lord to lead us well, and trust in Him to show us the people who are placed on our path to love and extend our devotion in a way that feels like family.
The Lord, He is good,
and He calls us all;
to love, devotion,
lift up when we fall.
God shows us His love,
so we may love too;
with great loyalty,
that shows He is true.
Love and devotion,
are what we’re to give;
honor each other,
each day that we live.
For the Lord is good,
and His love is kind;
He shows us the way,
to bless heart and mind.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You have shown us what it is to be devoted to one another in love and to care for each other and honor one another like sisters and brothers. Thank You that You strengthen and equip us to do so when we depend on You. Forgive us for the times that we have lacked loyalty or love. Show us how to love like You in all things and at all times. Lead us in true devotion and love for those whom You have placed on our path. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we choose to be devoted in love because You first loved us. Amen.
© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present
Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. – Ephesians 4:2
Revelations In Writing 