Love in Action
For the commandments say, “You must not commit adultery. You must not murder. You must not steal. You must not covet.” These—and other such commandments—are summed up in this one commandment: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no wrong to others, so love fulfills the requirements of God’s law. Romans 13:9-10
In the above verses the apostle Paul the Apostle draws together commandments that once stood like individual stones. “You must not commit adultery. You must not murder. You must not steal. You must not covet.” The Holy Spirit, through Paul’s writing, reveals the foundation beneath them all, “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
At first glance, the commandments can feel like a list of restrictions, lines we must not cross. But Paul shows us something deeper. These commands are not merely prohibitions; they are protections. Each one guards the dignity, safety, and flourishing of another person made in God’s image. When we refuse to harm, betray, or covet, we are choosing love.
Love is not vague sentimentality. It is active goodwill. It asks, What would I desire if I were in my neighbor’s place? Then it moves us to act accordingly. Love restrains our impulses, purifies our motives, and redirects our strength for the good of others. Where love governs the heart, wrongdoing loses its foothold.
This kind of love does not come naturally to us. It is born from the love God has first shown us. His love is steadfast, sacrificial, and faithful. When we receive that love, it begins to shape how we see others: not as rivals, obstacles, or possessions, but as neighbors worthy of care. In loving them, we fulfill the very heart of God’s law.
May we remember today that holiness is not cold rule-keeping, but warm-hearted love in action.
Gracious Father, You have shown us perfect love through Your Son. Write Your law upon our hearts, not as mere words, but as living compassion. Teach us to see our neighbors as You see them. Guard our thoughts, our words, and our actions from causing harm. Fill us with a love that is patient, pure, and selfless, that we may reflect Your heart in all we do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.