Genuine Love

In John 13:35 (KJV) Jesus says "By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another." The Bible instructs us to love one another in at least nineteen different passages. We need to remember that genuine love is not expressed through speech only, but is demonstrated in our actions as well. In Romans 12:9-20 (KJV) we are reminded of what genuine love is, and ways in which it can be expressed.

Love is not hypocrisy, but openness and honesty without judgment toward one another. Love doesn't put oneself above anyone else. It isn't expressed by doing something for someone, and expecting something from them in return. Love is not prejudice, but equal. Love is patient, kind, and merciful. It is forgiving, and understanding. It is rejoicing with those that are rejoicing, and weeping with those that are weeping. It is humble and loyal.  It is being there for someone in triumph, and failure, in good times, and times of trouble. Romans 13:10 (KJV) tells us that "Love worketh no ill to his neighbor: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. Romans 13:8-9 (KJV) says "Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself."

If we walk in genuine love for one another, we will have no desire to kill, steal, covet, bear false witness against, or harm anyone in any manner. Genuine love inflicts no pain, nor does it cause harm in any way. It is not just spoken, but rather seen in our actions, and felt in our hearts. It is witnessed in the way we behave toward one another. Jesus set a perfect example of what it means to walk in genuine love for one another, and He desires for us to follow that example.

Genuine love can be found in all that Jesus said, and did. He demonstrated kindness, meekness, forgiveness, mercy, patience, and understanding just to name a few traits. Strive to follow the example set by Jesus Christ. Work on walking in love toward one another. Genuine love is perfectly defined in the name of God. Remember, God is love.

If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, just leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.