APRIL 15, 2026 – UNITY AND HUMILITY

READ: Rom. 12:9–16: … with brotherly love … in honor giving preference … not lagging in diligence … rejoicing … patient … given to hospitality … bless … live in peace …

Here Paul describes life with Christ as a life of faith expressed in genuine brotherly love, flowing from God’s love toward us. What Christ asks of us through Paul we cannot accomplish in ourselves. We require the help of the Holy Spirit in answer to prayer and a critical awareness of our own weaknesses.

Brotherly love is not mere emotion. It is self-giving love, a willingness to sacrifice oneself for another. Christ Himself has set the example (John 15:13). Such love requires commitment and perseverance (v.11).

Paul insists that this love be sincere and without hypocrisy. It may require self-denial. Therefore prayer for the Holy Spirit is indispensable. He speaks of honoring one another (v.10), which begins with humility—esteeming others better than ourselves (Phil. 2:3).

Such love must be tangible. Others should feel safe and valued. We are to take the initiative in showing this love, not letting our conduct be determined by what we observe around us, but by Christ’s calling.

Where the mutual bond is healthy, believers share one another’s burdens (v.13). Troubles, illness, cares, and tensions are entrusted to one another so that help and encouragement may follow. This requires openness. Only then is genuine fellowship possible. Hospitality flows from this disposition. We are to maintain a positive attitude, even toward our enemies (v.14; Matt. 5:44).

In rejoicing with those who rejoice and weeping with those who weep, the bond of love deepens and we grow together toward Christ. As Eph. 4:15-16 teaches, we grow up in love into Him who is the Head—Christ—for the building up of the church in love.

Do you recognize this brotherly love in yourself?

Sing: Ps. 133:1,2