Devotional Message

There are two commands that we should have for each other—for loved ones, strangers, or people in-between. When we remember that we all come from the same source—God—this command begins to make deeper sense. The first instruction we’ve received is to be devoted—suggesting constant affection, commitment, loyalty, and sometimes even sacrifice. The second instruction is to do so in love, indicating that this devotion should be motivated by genuine care, attention, and thoughtfulness. This level of devotion is what God intends for each of us to truly live like we are all a family.

When we live in this state of grace, what we come to realize is that we not only ‘honor one another above ourselves,’ but also honor God. In a world where we are taught to be selfish, self-righteous, or self-centered, often told to focus on ourselves, put ourselves first, and not think about others when we act, this way of being counters those cultural messages. But the connection between love and honor in all relationships—even the ones that are minor or fleeting—is what builds a healthy community and keeps God’s image alive.

And the reality is—this can be through minimal effort. Offering someone a helping hand, committing to your word, sacrificing your needs, genuinely caring for someone’s well-being, offering a compliment. It may be challenging at first to put others before yourself, but the reward is worthwhile—knowing that you are living as God intended you to, resembling Christ himself, demonstrating what it means to ‘be devoted to one another in love.’

Let’s Pray

Dear God, I confess today that sometimes I put myself before others, thinking that by focusing on myself, I’m doing others a favor. But I am grateful for those who have honored me above themselves, for being selfless and giving me what I needed when I couldn’t provide it myself.

Help me in this area of my life, so that I can genuinely love, care for, and honor others as your word instructs. Help me see others, especially those who don’t feel deserving of my energy, through your eyes of compassion and grace. I commit today to specific acts of devotion and honor, with the goal of resembling Christ who honored us above Himself. Thank you for the example of sacrificial love and for calling me to be devoted to others in love. Amen.

---

Thank you for making God and Man a part of your spiritual journey. Please check out the rest of our website and if you need further encouragement, we have a beautiful library of prayers for almost every occasion located here.