How can you personally demonstrate "brotherly love" to someone in need this week? The Call to Brotherly Love “Let brotherly love continue.” (Hebrews 13:1) God’s directive is clear and literal: keep on loving fellow believers as family. Love must move from words to action—this week, not someday. Why It Matters • John 13:34-35—Jesus says the world will know we are His by our love. • Romans 12:10—“Be devoted to one another in brotherly love.” • 1 John 3:18—“Let us love not in word and speech, but in action and truth.” Obedience here isn’t optional; it is evidence of genuine faith. Preparing Your Heart • Pray for eyes to see needs (Philippians 2:3-4). • Hold resources loosely—time, money, skills all belong to the Lord (Psalm 24:1). • Cultivate empathy: “Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep.” (Romans 12:15). Spotting Needs Around You 1. The isolated—shut-ins, widows, single parents, students far from home. 2. The struggling—job loss, health crisis, unexpected bills. 3. The weary servants—pastors, ministry leaders, caregivers who rarely ask for help. 4. The newcomers—visitors at church, recent movers, refugees. Practical Ways to Demonstrate Brotherly Love This Week • Offer Presence – Schedule a visit or video call with someone who’s lonely. – Invite a newcomer to dinner or coffee after church. • Meet Tangible Needs – Buy groceries or prepare a meal for a family facing illness (James 2:15-16). – Give a gas card or cover a utility bill anonymously through the church office (Galatians 6:10). • Share Skills and Time – Babysit so exhausted parents can rest. – Help with a résumé, car repair, or yard work. • Encourage with Words – Write a handwritten note highlighting a specific way you see Christ in them (Proverbs 16:24). – Send a Scripture text each morning for a week. • Pray Intentionally – Ask what to pray, write it down, and follow up. – Pray with them on the spot instead of saying, “I’ll pray later.” • Partner in Ministry – Invite them to serve alongside you; shared mission deepens fellowship (1 Peter 4:10). – If they’re unable to serve physically, bring the ministry to them—assemble care-packages together at their house. Making It Concrete 1. Choose one person God brings to mind right now. 2. Decide on one specific act from the list above. 3. Set a time and date—put it on your calendar today. 4. Follow through joyfully, expecting God to work (2 Corinthians 9:7-8). Looking Ahead Brotherly love is a continual lifestyle. After you bless one person this week, ask, “Who’s next, Lord?” and let Hebrews 13:1 keep propelling you forward. |
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