If it looks like a duck, walks like a duck, and quacks like a duck, it must be a duck. Paul opens this chapter with Romans 12:1, which encourages us to present our bodies as living sacrifices. This means laying down our old, sinful ways to embrace the new life we receive through God’s new heart and Spirit (John 17:17, Ephesians 5:26). Paul explains what it means to live a life of sacrifice—one that involves letting go of our old lives while fully embracing the life of Christ, ultimately aiming to reflect the nature of the God who saved us. This is a life defined by love.

Why is this important? A life lived in love is a life lived in God (1 John 4:16). Just as distinct fingerprints can identify a human from an animal’s paw prints, there are clear signs that distinguish those who love and have dedicated their lives as living sacrifices. These signs are the fruits mentioned by Jesus, which determine whether our lives provide sustenance or poison (Matthew 7:15-20). We are called to live an authentic Christian life—a life marked by selflessness, sacrifice, and, at times, significant personal cost. These are the markers of a life lived in love.

This life requires trusting in God regardless of circumstances, with the assurance that He works all things for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28). It is a love that relies on God’s work in your life and the lives of others, a love that covers a multitude of sins. (1 Peter 4:8) It is a love that trusts in God’s justice, knowing that He has been long-suffering with us. This life recognizes the need to put to death the desires of the flesh and daily take up our cross, knowing that the work will yield eternal rewards (Romans 8:13, Galatians 5:24).

Father God, I pray that we would live the authentic Christian life and accurately reflect Your image. Continue to break the power of sin in our lives and strengthen us in the Spirit that we may walk in the Spirit and not give in to the desires of the flesh.