Daily Devotional for Thursday, March 20, 2025

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How Should Brotherly Love Continue Among Believers?

Hebrews 13:1 states, “Let brotherly love continue.” This short but powerful command emphasizes that love among Jehovah’s people must be ongoing and unwavering. It teaches that Christian love is not merely an emotion or occasional action but a continuous commitment to kindness, unity, and selflessness. This verse calls believers to sustain and nurture their love for one another, reflecting Jehovah’s own love in their relationships.

The phrase “Let brotherly love continue” uses the Greek word philadelphia, which specifically refers to the love shared among spiritual family members. This type of love is characterized by deep, sincere care rather than superficial politeness. The command to “continue” (menetó) indicates that this love should not fade but should be maintained consistently. 1 Peter 1:22 reinforces this: “Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for each other, love one another deeply, from the heart.” Genuine brotherly love is not temporary or conditional—it endures through difficulties and challenges.

The importance of maintaining brotherly love is seen throughout Scripture. Jesus stated in John 13:34-35, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” Love is the defining mark of true discipleship. It is not based on personal preference or convenience but is a reflection of the love Jehovah has shown His people.

However, sustaining brotherly love requires effort. The greatest threats to it are pride, selfishness, and unresolved conflicts. This is why Ephesians 4:2-3 urges, “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Love requires humility, patience, and a willingness to forgive. Colossians 3:13-14 adds, “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”

Brotherly love is not limited to those who are easy to get along with—it extends to all members of Jehovah’s family, even those with whom we may disagree. Romans 12:10 commands, “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” This means prioritizing the well-being of others, showing kindness, and seeking peace rather than division.

Hebrews 13:1 also reminds believers that love must be actively demonstrated, not just spoken about. 1 John 3:18 states, “Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” Love is seen in deeds—helping those in need, offering encouragement, and treating others with respect and kindness. Galatians 6:10 further emphasizes this by saying, “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”

Ultimately, Hebrews 13:1 teaches that brotherly love should be a permanent characteristic of Jehovah’s people. It is not a temporary feeling but a commitment to treating others with kindness, patience, and humility. By maintaining this love, believers reflect Jehovah’s character, strengthen their spiritual family, and demonstrate true discipleship. This verse serves as a reminder that love is the foundation of a faithful life, and it must continue without end.

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About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).