I was confronted by Romans 12:9-21 in my Bible reading today.  The section has the sub-title “The Marks of a Christian”.  If that is true (and of course it is) then there is a lot of room for self-examination and repentance here.  The bar is high and it goes far deeper than outward appearance and penetrates to the very depths of our hearts. Take a moment to read this rich passage and maybe do a little bit of personal inventory of your own:

Romans 12:9-21

[9] Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. [10] Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. [11] Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. [12] Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. [13] Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.  [14] Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. [15] Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. [16] Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. [17] Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. [18] If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. [19] Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” [20] To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” [21] Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (ESV)

Over the next few weeks my intent is to take each of these characteristics and write a bit about my own struggle and progress.  Next post on this will address “Let love be genuine.”  Would love to hear from you as well.