Romans 4 - CEVUS06 & NBA93

Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.

Love and relationships are important aspects of life, especially for younger generations navigating friendships, family dynamics, dating, and social connections. In a world where love is often portrayed in a confusing, fleeting, or superficial way, the Bible offers clear and timeless wisdom on what love truly means and how to build healthy relationships.

Here are seven Bible verses that will help guide you through the complexities of love and relationships.

1. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 — “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

In a world that sometimes focuses on instant gratification and fleeting emotions, the Bible reminds us that love is more about giving than receiving. Love isn’t just a feeling; it’s a choice to act with kindness and humility, even when it’s hard.

2. Matthew 22:37-39 — “Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”

Jesus simplifies love and relationships into two commandments: loving God first and then loving others. When your relationships are rooted in love for God, they will naturally reflect a love that values and respects others.

3. Proverbs 17:17 — “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”

Friendships and community are crucial, especially for the younger generation navigating through life’s challenges. Genuine friends love in every season, not just when it’s easy or convenient. They are there to support you during difficult times, and they offer strength and encouragement when you need it most.

4. 1 John 4:18 — “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.”

Many young people experience anxiety, fear, or insecurity in relationships, whether it’s fear of rejection, fear of not being enough, or fear of vulnerability. But this verse reminds us that real love, the kind of love God gives, casts out fear. In healthy relationships, love should create a sense of safety, not fear or insecurity. When you’re in a relationship that reflects God’s love, you will feel valued and cherished, not afraid or anxious.

5. Ephesians 4:2-3 — “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.”

In a world where arguments and conflict are common, these verses from Ephesians encourage us to practice humility, patience, and unity in our relationships. It’s not always easy, but maintaining peace and working toward understanding are key aspects of healthy connections. Love isn’t about always being right; sometimes it’s about listening, understanding, and choosing peace over conflict.

6. Song of Solomon 8:4 — “Do not arouse or awaken love until it so desires.”

For young people, particularly in the context of dating and romantic relationships, this verse offers wisdom about timing and patience. Culture often pressures young people to rush into relationships or equates physical attraction with love. However, the Bible encourages us to wait for the right timing, to allow love to grow naturally and genuinely, without rushing into anything prematurely. This ensures that relationships are based on genuine connection and mutual respect.

7. Romans 12:10 — “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”

Instead of asking, “What can I get out of this relationship?” we are encouraged to honor and respect others, putting their needs ahead of our own. True love is about devotion and commitment, not just convenience or personal gain. When you prioritize honoring others, you build relationships that are strong, meaningful, and lasting.

Conclusion

Navigating love and relationships as a young person can be challenging, especially in a world filled with mixed messages about what love is and how relationships should work. However, these Bible verses provide a clear and countercultural view of love: one that is selfless, patient, kind, and enduring. Love isn’t just about feelings, it’s about action, commitment, and putting others before yourself. When your relationships are rooted in these principles, they will flourish in ways that bring fulfillment, joy, and peace. So, take these truths with you as you navigate love and relationships, always remembering that God’s love is the foundation of all healthy connections.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.-2

Prayer is a vital aspect of the Christian faith, serving as a direct line of communication with God. The Bible offers numerous verses that can guide and inspire us in our prayer life. Here are seven Bible verses that can help you to pray:

1. Matthew 6:9-13

“This, then, is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.’”

The Lord’s Prayer, provides a perfect model for prayer. It includes elements of praise, submission to God’s will, requests for daily needs, forgiveness, and guidance. Using this structure can help us cover all aspects of our spiritual life in prayer.

2. Philippians 4:6

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

You are encouraged to turn your worries into prayers. This verse emphasizes importance of approaching God with your needs and anxieties, coupled with a heart of gratitude. This verse reminds you that prayer is a means to relieve anxiety and to trust in God’s provision.

3. 1 Thessalonians 5:16

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

Praying continually doesn’t mean being on our knees all day but maintaining a constant awareness of God’s presence and turning to Him throughout our day. It encourages an attitude of gratitude and joy in all circumstances.

4. James 5:16

“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”

James 5:16 emphasizes the power of communal prayer and confession. It encourages us to support each other through prayer and to recognize the importance of a righteous person’s prayer. You are encouraged to seek out prayer partners and to be diligent in your intercessions for others.

5. Romans 8:26

“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.”

You can find comfort in knowing that the Holy Spirit assists you in your prayers, especially when you are uncertain about what to pray for. The Spirit’s intercession ensures that your prayers align with God’s will, providing a deeper connection in your communication with God.

6. Matthew 7:7-8

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.”

Jesus assures you that your earnest seeking and asking will not go unanswered. This promise can bolster your confidence in approaching God with your needs and desires, knowing that He listens and responds.

7. 1 John 5:14-15

“This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him.”

God is attentive to your prayers. It highlights the importance of aligning your requests with His will, giving you confidence that your prayers are heard and will be answered in accordance with His divine plan.

Conclusion

Prayer is a powerful and essential practice in the Christian life. These seven Bible verses offer guidance, encouragement, and assurance in our prayer journey. By meditating on and incorporating these scriptures into your prayer life, you can deepen your relationship with God, approach Him with confidence, and experience the transformative power of prayer.

The Example of Abraham

1 Well then, what can we say about our ancestor Abraham? 2 If he became acceptable to God because of what he did, then he would have something to brag about. But he would never be able to brag about it to God. 3 The Scriptures say, “God accepted Abraham because Abraham had faith in him.”

4 Money paid to workers isn't a gift. It is something they earn by working. 5 But you cannot make God accept you because of something you do. God accepts sinners only because they have faith in him. 6 In the Scriptures David talks about the blessings that come to people who are acceptable to God, even though they don't do anything to deserve these blessings. David says,

7-8 “What a blessing

when God forgives our sins

and our evil deeds.

What a blessing

when the Lord erases our sins

from his book.”

9 Are these blessings meant for circumcised people or for those who are not circumcised? Well, the Scriptures say that God accepted Abraham because Abraham had faith in him. 10 But when did this happen? Was it before or after Abraham was circumcised? Of course, it was before.

11 Abraham let himself be circumcised to show he had been accepted because of his faith even before he was circumcised. This makes Abraham the father of all who are acceptable to God because of their faith, even though they are not circumcised. 12 This also makes Abraham the father of everyone who is circumcised and has faith in God, as Abraham did before he was circumcised.

The Promise Is for All Who Have Faith

13 God promised Abraham and his descendants that he would give them the world. This promise wasn't made because Abraham had obeyed a law, but because his faith in God made him acceptable. 14 If Abraham and his descendants were given this promise because they had obeyed a law, then faith would mean nothing, and the promise would be worthless.

15 God becomes angry when his Law is broken. But where there isn't a law, it cannot be broken. 16 Everything depends on having faith in God, so that God's promise is assured by his gift of undeserved grace. This promise isn't only for Abraham's descendants who have the Law. It is for all who are Abraham's descendants because they have faith, just as he did. Abraham is the ancestor of us all. 17 The Scriptures say that Abraham would become the ancestor of many nations. This promise was made to Abraham because he had faith in God, who raises the dead to life and creates new things.

18 God promised Abraham a lot of descendants. And when it all seemed hopeless, Abraham still had faith in God and became the ancestor of many nations. 19 Abraham's faith never became weak, not even when he was nearly 100 years old. He knew he was almost dead and that his wife Sarah could not have children. 20 But Abraham never doubted or questioned God's promise. His faith made him strong, and he gave all the credit to God.

21 Abraham was certain that God could do what he had promised. 22 So God accepted him, 23 just as we read in the Scriptures. But these words were not written only for Abraham. 24 They were written for us, since we will also be accepted because of our faith in God, who raised our Lord Jesus to life. 25 God gave Jesus to die for our sins, and he raised him to life, so that we would be made acceptable to God.

Ṯǝmminǝ ṯǝthi Ibraahiim.

1 Nǝ ŋirṯaŋ ŋinḏirsi eṯhisi andasi ŋǝthi Ibraahiim kwir kwugwurnǝ kwǝri ŋiɽaŋal-ŋi ŋǝthi aŋna? 2 Na mǝ Ibraahiim suuɽunni ŋothɽor-ŋi, nɔŋwɔni kwǝthi lɔɽɔjɔ lǝthi-li ǝllinǝthǝ, laakin kiyǝnǝ yǝthi Allah tǝ bǝri. 3 Nǝ ŋǝthi Kiṯaab Kirllinǝlɔ ter ŋaari tha? “Nǝ Ibraahiim ǝmminci Allah mindaŋ nǝrsi ruusici ŋirllalɔ.” 4 Ŋgwa kwǝṯi akkɔ ŋothɽor ǝṯireere ruusici ɔjra wuuŋwun kaka haḏiiyyǝ mac, laakin kaka ŋgwa kwǝthi ŋothɽor ŋuuŋun. 5 Nǝ ŋgwa kwiti kwǝṯi akkɔ ŋothɽor mac, laakin ǝṯɔŋw allatha ŋgwa ṯɔgwor naana kwǝṯi suuɽi ŋgwa kwiti kwǝthi ṯǝmminǝ mac, ǝṯi ṯǝmminǝ ṯuuŋwun oro ṯimǝ ruusi ŋunduŋw kwirllalɔ. 6 Ḏaawḏ tok nɔŋwsi andasi ŋǝthi ṯɔrtanna ṯǝthi ŋgwa kwɔmǝ Allah ruusi kwirllalɔ, ŋiti ŋir ŋǝthi ŋothɽor mac kaka naarɔ-ŋgwɔŋw:

7 “Lɔrtanni kila limǝrsi fivrici ŋikiyaŋi ŋeeŋen kithaay, nǝ

kila limǝrsi kwuɽubǝci ŋikiyaŋi-lɔ.

8 Kwɔrtanni ŋgwa kwiti kwinḏi Kweeleny ethi iiɽǝci ŋikiyaŋi

ŋuuŋun mac.”

9 E-ta ṯɔrtanna kɔthɔ ṯandisar ṯǝni ṯǝthi kila luuɽunnǝ ṯɔɽɔk-ga? Alla ṯǝthi kila tok liti limǝ uɽunni mac? A kwaarir-paŋw, ṯǝmminǝ-thi nǝr ruusi Ibraahiim-ŋwɔ kwirllalɔ. 10 Nǝ ṯimǝr ruusici ṯuuŋwun aŋgwɔrɔ? Kerreny kwirii alla kwaathan-gi kinaŋw mɔŋw uɽunni rac? Ŋiti ŋǝniŋw kwaathan-gi mac, laakin kerreny niti nuuɽunnǝ-ŋgwɔ kinnǝni mac. 11 Nɔŋw aavi ṯuuɽunnǝ ṯir kaka @alaama, ya khiṯim kǝthi ŋirllalɔ ŋǝthi-ŋwsi ṯǝmminǝ-thi kinaŋw a-naanɔŋw-tǝ kinnǝni kwiti kwuuɽunnǝ mac. Kaka ninḏir-gwɔ ethi ruusi ŋunduŋw papa kwǝthi kila tatap linḏi ethi ǝmmini, liti luɽuthirsi kinnǝni mac, kila limǝrsi ruusi lirllalɔ. 12 Nɔŋworo papa tok kwǝthi kila luuɽunnǝ, nǝ nǝreere uɽunni dak mac, laakin nǝr rɔɔmi ṯǝmminǝ ṯǝthi papa kwǝri kwǝni Ibraahim kerreny niti nuuɽunnǝ-ŋgwɔ kinnǝni mac. Wa@ḏ wǝṯi ǝvinǝ ṯǝmminǝ-thi.

13 Wa@ḏ wa wigittathicar-yi Ibraahiim-ŋwɔsi ŋwɔɔla-ŋi ŋwuuŋwun, ethi ṯurmun oro ṯeeŋen, nɔŋweere iila ŋiɽaŋal-ŋi ŋǝthi Sherii@a mac, laakin nɔŋwiila ŋirllalɔ-ŋi ŋǝthi ṯǝmminǝ. 14 Na mǝ ŋgwa kwaari-gi Allah wa@ḏa oro kwinḏiŋw ethisi inḏǝthǝ kila lǝṯi iinyici Sherii@a naana, e-ta ǝtǝpǝ ṯǝmminǝ ṯǝthi kwizigwunǝŋ orolɔŋw domony, mindaŋ a wa@ḏ wǝthi Allah ere ǝthi faayitha-na kweere kwokwony mac. 15 Sherii@a kwǝni-pǝ kwǝṯi aava ŋarriny ŋǝthi Allah; laakin kǝzir witi wǝṯi-gwɔ Sherii@a ere naani mac tǝ, ǝṯi ṯakka ṯaay pir ere naani tok mac. 16 Nǝṯǝ sǝbǝb oro ŋgwɔ mindaŋ ǝṯi wa@ḏ iila ṯǝmminǝ-thi, mindaŋ mǝ wa@ḏ oro wǝthi ne@ma kaka haḏiiyyǝ wǝthi Allah, ki-ŋwɔɔla-na tatap ŋwɔthi Ibraahim, nǝreere oro kila dak mac lǝṯi iinyici Sherii@a naana, laakin nǝroro kila tok limǝ ǝmmini kaka Ibraahiim-ŋwɔ, kwir papa kwǝri tatap. 17 Kaka nɔlɔɔthɔnar-gwɔ, ŋaarɔŋw, “Nyii kwɔmǝ-ŋǝ ruusi papa kwǝthi lizi luuru.” Kiyǝnǝ yǝthi Allah wǝmminicǝŋw, wa wǝṯisi inḏǝthǝ kila laayɔ ŋimiitha nǝ ǝṯɔŋw keṯṯe ŋgwa kwiti kwɔnaanɔ mac. 18 Nɔŋw ǝmmini ṯǝkkizǝ-thi kizǝn niti-vǝ ninaanɔ sǝbǝb kweere kinnǝni mac kwǝthi ṯǝkkizǝ-thi kizǝn, mindaŋ ethoro papa kwǝthi luuru; kaka nandicarsi-gwɔ ŋǝniŋw, “Ŋwɔɔla ŋwɔɔŋa ŋwinḏi-ṯǝ ethoroŋw.” 19 Nǝ ṯǝmminǝ ṯuuŋwun ere ajli mac ŋiɽaŋal-ŋi ŋǝthi aŋna wuuŋwun wumǝ rɔɔnyɔthisi, mɔŋgwɔ aadithi ethoro yithlǝyu ruɽi-ṯɔthni, ya kinaŋw naarɔŋw-ŋi fǝkirǝ ŋǝthi ŋwɔreny ŋwɔthi Saara ŋwɔmǝ rilli ŋelŋe. 20 Nɔŋweerc oro rɔgwor-na riɽǝ-riɽǝn mac, kwiti kwaaralɔ tiŋgil-ṯiŋgil tok mac ŋiɽaŋal-ŋi ŋǝthi wa@ḏ wǝthi Allah, laakin nǝmǝ ṯǝmminǝ ṯuuŋwun peŋe rerrec, mindaŋ nɔŋw nii Allah-na. 21 Nɔŋw ǝmmini rerrem ethaarɔŋw, Allah wǝthi ŋɔma ethisi ǝrri ŋa ŋigittathɔŋw-ŋi. 22 Ŋindǝr-ṯǝ ŋɔ mindaŋ nǝr-mǝ “ruusici ṯǝmminǝ ṯuuŋwun ŋirllalɔ.” 23 Laakin ŋiɽaŋal ŋa ŋǝniŋw, “ruusici ṯǝmminǝ ṯuuŋwun ŋirllalɔ.” Nǝreere lothone ŋǝni ŋundu ṯɔɽɔk mac, 24 Laakin nǝrǝni nyiiŋǝ tok. Ŋǝrnyji ruusici ŋǝri tok kila lǝmminicǝ ŋgwa kwɔmǝ diiɽǝ Yǝcu-ŋw ki-ŋiɽany-na kwir Kweeleny kwǝri, 25 ŋgwa kwiɽinyithir ŋiɽaŋal-ŋi ŋǝthi ŋikiya ŋǝri, mindaŋ nɔŋw diiɽǝ ethi suuɽi nyuŋwsi.