Transformed Menنموونە

Neighborly Formation

Former NFL quarterback Peyton Manning played 18 seasons in the NFL for the Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos, winning two Super Bowls and five NFL MVP awards. He is noted for saying: “The most valuable player is the one who makes the most players valuable.”

A great player doesn’t just score points; he sets up teammates, defends, and makes sacrifices to help the team succeed. Jesus’ Great Commandment turns the first four areas of internal growth outward by calling His followers to love not only God but also others. Loving your neighbor is like being a great teammate who’s not worried about personal stats but about helping others thrive.

Paul emphasizes a similar message, reminding us that the desire to reflect Christ’s image is incomplete without actively seeking our neighbors’ good and learning to love them in tangible ways (Romans 15:1-2). Jesus’ life was marked by sacrificial love for others, even those who hated Him. Loving God and loving people are interconnected.

Unfortunately, we live in a time when our love for our neighbor can be more shaped by politics and social media than by the truth of God’s Word. Acts of kindness, empathy for others, and love for our enemies—all signs of a Christ follower—can be drowned out by the noise of anger, vitriol, and cruelty.

Dallas Willard famously stated, “The main test for Christlike character is whether one spontaneously responds to one’s enemies with love.”

Loving others isn’t always easy. People can be difficult, and relationships can be messy. But spiritual formation doesn’t happen alone—it happens in community. Men may be tempted to isolate themselves, but growth occurs through relationships. God chisels away at our selfishness as we learn to love and shapes us as we serve, forgive, and encourage others. Our spiritual formation on the inside is shown through our transformation on the outside.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, teach me to love others the way You have loved me: sacrificially, graciously, and consistently. Help me to love not only the people I like but also those I find difficult to love so that I can be more like You. Amen.

Reflection: What are the limits of your love for others? How can you show the life and love of Christ to others? Reach out to encourage someone today. Look for ways to serve without seeking recognition. Forgive someone you’ve been holding a grudge against. Pray for a neighbor, coworker, or family member by name.