Authentic Faith in Action: From the Book of JamesSample

Day 11: The Royal Law

James calls us to a higher standard—what he calls the Royal Law: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Leviticus 19:18, NIV) Love is the foundation of God’s Kingdom, yet favoritism and self-interest can easily cloud our obedience to this command. Sin whispers that life is about what we can get from others, rather than what we can give. But true love reflects Christ’s example—selfless, inclusive, and without conditions.

The way we love ourselves—through grace, forgiveness, patience, and care—becomes the pattern for how we extend love to others. If we withhold love, show partiality, or treat some people as “less than,” we break the very law that fulfills all others. Christ’s love levels the ground for everyone, reminding us that each neighbor, near or far, is equally worthy of compassion.

Reflection: Am I truly loving my neighbor as myself, or do I put my own interests first? Do I treat some people as more deserving of my kindness than others?

Application: Identify someone you might be struggling to love—whether due to past hurt, differences, or misunderstanding. Pray for them, and then commit to one specific act of kindness toward them this week.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, may Your royal law of love guide every interaction I have. Teach me to lay aside favoritism, pride, or selfishness. Help me to love my neighbor as I love myself, following the example of Christ who loved us all without condition. In Jesus’ name, Amen.