“Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.” ⎯ Romans 12:9-10

Have you ever watched one of those reality shows on TV where people try to sell items to a pawn shop? Sometimes before an item is purchased the store owner may bring in an expert to try and determine if an autograph is authentic, or if a piece of artwork is the real deal or not. Sometimes the owner will pay top dollar for an item but only if it is genuine.

Paul wanted the Christian believers in Rome to not only recognize genuine Godly love but to live love as well. He pointed out that genuine love:

• Does Not Pretend
• Hates What Is Wrong
• Always Lines Up With Goodness
• Honors Others

Think about those four characteristics of Godly love and ask yourself the following questions today:

• Is my love for others real or do I have to sometimes fake it?
• What is my reaction when I see people being mistreated or picked on at school?
• What categories best describe my attitudes and actions?
• How do I feel about honoring others and treating them with respect and dignity?