Romans 12:10-11

What Does Romans 12:10-11 Mean?

Paul says to love with “brotherly affection” – the warm, genuine love you’d have for a sibling you really like. And then he says to “outdo one another in showing honor” – actually compete at giving others respect and recognition before yourself! That’s the complete opposite of what the world usually teaches. He also says to stay fired up in your spirit and to serve the Lord with all your energy. Enthusiasm for God should never fizzle out!

Hero Challenge

Start an “honor challenge” with a friend or sibling this week: see who can say more genuine encouraging things to people around them. Keep a friendly tally. The catch? The compliments have to be real and specific – no making things up. At the end of the week, celebrate both of you – because in this race, everyone wins!

Did You Know?

The phrase “brotherly affection” in this verse comes from the Greek word “philadelphia” – which is literally where Philadelphia, Pennsylvania got its name! It was called the City of Brotherly Love. Paul uses this word to describe the quality of love that faith-filled believers should have for each other – warm, loyal, and family-strong. What a beautiful standard!

Ages 4-6: Little Hero Question

We can show love to others by saying kind things and helping them feel special. Who can you say something kind to today?

Ages 7-9: Growing Hero Question

What does it mean to “outdo one another in showing honor”? How is that different from normal competition?

Ages 10-13: Champion Question

Paul combines loving others AND serving the Lord in these two verses. How are those two things connected? Can you truly serve God without actively loving the people around you?