Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

The Great 8: Sincere Love. Devotion. Humility. Passionate in the Lord. Joyful. Patient. Faithful. Generous. Hospitable.

I think the Great 8 rely on and enable each other too. When I love with sincerity, I will naturally be devoted to God and his plans for me. This will lead to a heart like the heart of Jesus — full of humility. Without needing to impress others because God already redeemed me and loves me, I can take relational risks and passionately live out the gospel. This will look like joy in hope, patience in affliction, and faithfulness in prayer, communicating with God often.

Do I want to be a spiritual powerhouse to those around me? This is the formula. It is a challenging road. However, the view from atop the narrow road, like when hiking up a rugged mountain, is so sweet!

Lord, thank you for encouraging me to excel in your ways and to trust you with all that life throws at me. You are patient and kind with me. Help me to be patient and kind with those around me.