Let Your Reputation Be Love | Morning Routine Daily Devotional for December 18

Now concerning brotherly love you have no need for anyone to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love one another, for that indeed is what you are doing to all the brothers throughout Macedonia. But we urge you, brothers, to do this more and more, and to aspire to live quietly, and to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands, as we instructed you, so that you may walk properly before outsiders and be dependent on no one. — 1 Thessalonians 4:9-12 ESV

The Thessalonians had a special place in Paul’s heart. In this first letter to them, he praises them in chapter one because they “became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia. For not only has the word of the Lord sounded forth from you in Macedonia and Achaia, but your faith in God has gone forth everywhere, so that we need not say anything” (1 Thessalonians 1:7-8). 

Paul continues this sentiment in chapter 4, where we find today’s passage. Paul says that he doesn’t need to write to correct them in loving others since they’re already thriving. He attributes their conduct to the Lord, and their love has been made evident throughout Macedonia. Macedonia was a providence that stretched 200 miles. That means a lot of people knew about God’s love through the Thessalonians! Paul encourages them to continue walking in love more and more.

Certainly as Christians, but even as those who influence others, let us aspire to be known for our love, to have a reputation of those who love others. In the home, in the school, in the church, in the public square: see others as God sees them and love them with a God-like love. And may news of such radical Christian love spread around the world.