Practice love diligently. It is one of those graces, above all, which grow by constant exercise. Strive more and more to carry it into every little detail of daily life. Watch over your own tongue and temper throughout every hour of the day,�and especially in your dealing with children and near relatives. Remember the character of the excellent woman: �She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue� (Proverbs 31:26). Remember the words of Paul: �Do everything in love� (1 Corinthians 16:14).
Love should be seen in little things as well as in great ones. Remember, not least, the words of Peter: �Love each other deeply�; not a love which just barely is a flame, but a burning, shining fire, which everyone around us can see. (1 Peter 4:8) It may cost pains and trouble to keep these things in mind. There may be little encouragement from the example of others. But persevere. Love like this brings its own reward.
And I think Paul settles and concludes the matter of how sincere and true Christian love really works, in action and not just in words giving lip service regardless of how others respond to us, we still must display true Christian love that is to be genuine from the heart: Romans 12: 9 Let love be without dissimulation (which means without hypocrisy). Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honour one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervour, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
13. Share with God's people who are in need. Practise hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody.
18. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: It is mine to avenge; I will repay, says the Lord. On the contrary: If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
