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Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.

1 Corinthians 16:13–14, ESV

Fear twists the mind and can cause enemies to arise where there should be friendship, fellowship, and brotherly love. At the time of Paul, enemies of the faith sought to take Christians' livelihoods and lives. Paul reminded them of the necessity of watchfulness and that love was central to all things.  His reminder is for us also. Are our words and actions in times of distress being done out of love and, if so, are they showing love? His words were particularly directed towards men as men are called to lead, but not with brute force but with Christ’s love always at the forefront. He was calling men to also stand as heads of the household and to lead the family in the faith. Men are not to be weak and uncertain but stand firm and grounded to lead others in faith. Leading with love is not a weak stance, but one that submits all things to Christ and offers a voice of correction when necessary. Too often throughout history, men have ceded their position given by God to be the spiritual head of the home and sought after other pursuits, but here we are reminded of our calling as men as we show the love of Christ to our wives and our children and they will be healthy in their love, too. As all is done in love, service of another is simple, and out of love sacrifices of self will be given. Through it all, it is so that all may come to know the love of Christ and live in His peace.

Let us pray. I thank you, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, your dear Son, that you have kept me this night from all harm and danger, and I ask you to protect me this day also from sin and every evil, that in all I do today, I may please you. For into your hands, I commend myself, my body and soul, and all that is mine. Let your holy angel watch over me, that the wicked foe have no power over me. Amen.