Devoted To One Another

9-11-2012 by Boyd Bailey “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love.” Romans 12:10a (NASB) Disciples of Jesus are devoted to Christ, but they are also devoted to each other. Devotion to divinity becomes devotion to humanity. There is a worldwide fraternity of faith and a sorority of salvation that enjoys a brotherly and sisterly love for one another. For some Christians their intimacy with other believers is much more real than their relationship with blood relatives. Those washed in the blood of Christ can be soulmates in the faith. We see this devotion when we mess up and another spiritual comrade helps us through our sticky situation. We lose our job and they help us network a new beginning. We suffer and they suffer with us. We rejoice and they rejoice with us. The kinship with other Christ followers is a humbling benefit of being a believer, but it does require fidelity both ways. Our devotion back to believers is a signal of loyalty and love—it provides security. “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” Acts 2:42 Who in your circle of influence needs your unconditional devotion? A friend? A spouse? A supervisor or subordinate? A family member? Do not underestimate the value of your loyalty during lean times. Perhaps an unhealthy person needs your helping hand. A church or ministry leader may need you to volunteer for a season with your seasoned support. Your dependable devotion during difficult times is refreshing to the recipient. So, refresh often! Your life is like a written devotional of encouragement and conviction for other Christ followers to read. You have your own bumps and bruises and victories that make you attractive for another to confide their concerns in. Your devotion is a spiritual lifeline for the lost. It is an anchor for the drifter and a reminder for the forgetful. As you remain faithful, you raise the faith in all other boats of belief. Your devotion inspires another’s devotion! Above all else, keep your devotion to Christ fresh and foremost. He is your Master and Motivator. He is the reason for your righteous zeal and your energy to endure. Love Jesus well and you will love well. Be loved by Him, and you will love for Him. Be a dedicated disciple by remaining in Him. Devotion to Jesus Christ becomes devotion to one another. “Before God you could see for yourselves how devoted to us you are.” 2 Corinthians 7:12b Prayer: Heavenly Father, keep my heart devoted first to You and then to others. Related Scriptures: 1 Kings 15:3; Ezekiel 44:29; Luke 16:13; 1 Timothy 6:2