Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another. Romans 12:10

If there is one clear message for every American, we are all different. Different in our race, culture, beliefs, how we live, how we treat others….the list of differences goes on and on. From state to state, city to city, even house to house in the same neighborhood, differences abound. One of the struggles for many is the ability to accept the fact that not everyone has the same belief system. This is especially true for people as they get older and set in their ways….my hand is raised!

 

Today’s verse is a great reminder that although the person across the street or another family member may view life differently, we MUST love one another and have respect for their beliefs and decisions. We might not understand it or accept it, but love must be present if we are to live in accordance to God’s will.

 

If someone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen? 1 John 4:20 You might not hate a person for their beliefs, but how do you treat them? Do you put them down in conversation with others? Which leads me to my last point, what is love?

 

⁴ Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. ⁵ It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7  

Love is a tall order, but God expects us to show His love to others without any conditions. Love is what will bridge together everyone! Love on someone today! God bless!