Outdo One Another

    In the past, I have talked about how the thief of joy is comparison. That is still true, but did you know there is something we are to outdo one another in?

   Romans 12:9-13 says "Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality." 

   Verse 10 says we are to outdo one another in showing honor. We are called to be a light in this dark world. We show love to others each day so they can see Jesus through us. 

   Is this verse saying we are to flaunt when we show love to others? 

   No, it says we are to outdo one another in showing honor. Is it honorable to flaunt our accomplishments? Is it honorable to tell others about all the sacrifices we have made for others? No, it is honorable to do as we are called to do and reflect God's glory.

   What does that look like? We are authentically real with others. We cling to the Lord and listen to the Holy Spirit as he guides us. We remember the hope we have in Christ and spread that hope to others. We wait for the Lord to help us in our trials. We pray consistently. And we use our gifts to reflect God's glory. We give him the honor. That's how we outdo one another in honor, honorably.

   So, are you showing others God's love? How can you outdo others in honor, honorably?