The Affection of Honor

What if love was more of a decision than a feeling?Paul gives two commands here. First, be devoted in brotherly love. This is a constant, steady commitment, like family. Second, he says to take the lead in showing honor. This is not about waiting to receive respect; it is about actively looking for ways to value others more than yourself. It turns the world’s idea of self-promotion completely upside down. The Roman world was obsessed with status and gaining honor. Paul calls the church to a completely different economy of respect, one rooted in humility and mutual service.

This kind of love is not something you can manufacture on your own. It flows from a heart changed by the gospel. Because Christ honored you by giving His life for you, you are now free to honor others. John Chrysostom saw this as the great mark of a Christian: not seeking your own glory, but delighting in the good of your brother or sister. God is not asking you to muster up a feeling. He is inviting you to act in love, and you can trust His Spirit will help you. In what small way can you choose to honor someone today?

How can I take the lead in showing honor to someone in my life today, without expecting anything in return?

Father, thank You for loving me with such an undeserved love. Help me to see others through Your eyes and give me a heart that delights in honoring them. Let my love be genuine today. Amen.

In Roman society, seeking personal honor (honos) was a primary motivation for public life. Paul’s command to give honor to others was a radical reversal of this cultural value.