“Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love.” Romans 12:9-10a

Thoughtfulness can come in many forms. The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman gives a great beginning structure that’s inspiring. Love and care are synonymous throughout scripture, but Jesus used a variety of ways to express his love and care depending on who he was engaging. Once with the disciples, Jesus demonstrated love with acts of service. He got down on his hands and knees and washed their feet. Another time, with a man who had leprosy, he showed care using physical touch. It makes sense to use different ways of expressing love as a tool for showing care for others. Now, this does require some homework to know and discover the love language of another person. But, whether or not you know someone’s love language should never stop you from caring for them.

My love language is “physical touch,” but I’m not going to turn down a word of affirmation from my boss or a gift from my kids. Knowing and loving someone using their “language”  just deepens the level of care you show them. Jennifer’s love language is “acts of service,” so when I make the bed, she lights up. It’s something small, even easy, but those are the things that add up. Aren’t they?

TRY IT: If you’re new to love languages, check out this summary article. Then, using what you learn, show care for a family member or a friend using their love language with no strings attached.