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Key Bible Verse: Don't just pretend that you love others. Really love them (Romans 12:9).Bonus Reading: Romans 12:9-21

The man Paul describes in Romans 12 is awesomely three-dimensional: He sacrifices his life for a cause. His words and his actions line up. He's a leader, a servant, a caregiver. Although mighty, he bridles his power. He's not afraid to step out of his comfort zone to help others. He's self-controlled and relates to people selflessly. He believes the best about others and offers them grace. He reserves judgment and respects others.

How we treat others mattered to Paul because it matters to God. Romans 12 says that a man who's surrendered to God, transformed by the Word, and committed to serving out of his giftedness approaches relationships differently. There's a caring side to him, and it shows in how he treats those around him.

Look at how you treat others and you'll readily see either a transformed life or a life still consumed with self. To find out which applies to you, ask yourself, When confronted with someone in need, what's my first reaction? Do I evade and run? Or do I say, "Tell me more. Let's talk it through. Maybe I can help."

Your gut-level response will tell you whether you're a man who isn't afraid to order quiche from the menu.

—Todd Wendorff in Being God's Man … by Claiming Your Freedom

My Response: So what is my first reaction when confronted with someone in need?

Thought to Apply: Christianity demands a level of caring that transcends human inclinations.—ERWIN LUTZER

Adapted from Being God's Man … by Claiming Your Freedom (WaterBrook, 2004) by permission.

Copyright © 2007 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine.Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity.

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Prayer for the Week

Lord, I want to replicate your tough but tender love in my world. Please teach me how.

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