Paul calls us to "brotherly love"—the kind of affection siblings should share. This isn't cold duty or forced politeness; it's warm, genuine care for fellow believers as family. The phrase "preferring one another" means putting others first, considering their needs and interests above our own. This runs counter to our self-centered nature, which constantly asks "What's in it for me?"

Christian community should be marked by this kind of love. We honor one another by showing respect, recognizing gifts and contributions, speaking well of each other, and lifting up rather than tearing down. We prefer one another by yielding our preferences, deferring to others' needs, and looking for opportunities to serve rather than to be served. This creates a culture completely opposite to the world's competition and self-promotion.

Notice the order: we are to be "kindly affectioned" first, then prefer one another. Affection comes before action. We cannot sustain long-term service to others without genuine care for them. Duty without love breeds resentment. But when we truly care about people—when we see them as brothers and sisters beloved by God—honoring and preferring them becomes natural. This is why growing in love for God (Week 1) must precede loving our neighbor (this week). Our love for people flows from our love for God and reflects His love for them.

Prayer: Lord, help us to love our brothers and sisters in Christ with genuine affection. Teach us to honor others and to prefer their needs above our own. May our Christian community be marked by the kind of love that draws others to You. Amen.