“Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law.” – Romans 13:8 NKJV

In life, we carry many responsibilities—bills, work, family, and commitments. Debt can weigh us down, not only financially but also emotionally and spiritually. Yet Paul reminds us here of the one debt we should never seek to pay off fully: the debt of love.

Love is not optional for the follower of Christ; it is our ongoing obligation. Just as Christ loved us sacrificially and unconditionally, we are called to extend that same love to others. Unlike financial debts, which can be paid and closed, the debt of love is never complete.

Every day, God places people in our path who need to experience His love through us—family, friends, coworkers, even strangers.

To love others is to live out the very heart of God’s law. When we walk in love, we naturally avoid harming others, we speak truth with grace, we act with kindness, and we build peace instead of strife. Love sums up all of God’s commands because it reflects His character.

• Ask yourself: Am I living in the freedom of loving others, or am I withholding love because of pride, hurt, or fear?

• Seek opportunities today to “pay” this beautiful debt. It might be through forgiveness, an encouraging word, a helping hand, or simply patience and kindness.

• Remember, you don’t love out of your own strength—you love because God has poured His love into your heart through the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5).

Prayer

Lord, thank You for loving me first and fully through Jesus Christ. Teach me to walk in that same love toward others every day. Help me see people the way You see them, and remind me that my lifelong calling is to love. May my life reflect Your love so that others may be drawn to You. Amen.