Listen

Love should be shown without pretending. Hate evil, and hold on to what is good.

Romans 12:9

Think

Have you noticed how children can sense when someone isn’t being genuine? They can often tell when love isn’t real, when someone is just pretending to love. We all want sincere love from others, and we are called to share sincere love with others. In Jesus’ life we see sincere love given over and over again. We’re called to follow Christ’s example and to continually be shaped by God’s love. To truly love well, we must abide in Jesus: it’s not something we can fake.

The world may say, “Fake it ’til you make it,” but that’s not a lasting way to live in love. Instead, spend time with God so your heart, attitude, words, and actions reflect real, genuine love. As we spend time with God and learn the ways of Jesus, we’ll learn to love sincerely and well.

Lee Ritchie

Question to Ponder:

What area of your life could use more authenticity in love?

Pray

God, who seeks a real relationship with me, help me love others in ways that are true and good. Amen.

Go

Remember God created you, loves you, and desires relationship with you. Let the abundance of that relationship nourish you and help you love others. Amen.