Rhapsody of Realities for 12 July 2026 — A “Holy Kiss”—what It Really Means

 

TODAY'S RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DEVOTIONAL BY PASTOR CHRIS OYAKHILOME.

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TOPIC: A “Holy Kiss”—what It Really Means

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SCRIPTURE: "Salute one another with an holy kiss. The churches of Christ salute you (Romans 16:16)."

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When the Apostle Paul wrote, “Salute one another with an holy kiss,” he wasn’t introducing a ritual; he was addressing the sincerity of relationships among God’s people. To understand this, you must look beyond the surface. In those days, a kiss was a common form of greeting. But Paul added a qualifier—“holy.” That’s because not every expression of affection is genuine.

The Lord Jesus Himself highlighted this when Judas came to betray Him. The Bible says, “And forthwith he came to Jesus, and said, Hail, master; and kissed him. And Jesus said unto him, Friend, wherefore art thou come? Then came they, and laid hands on Jesus, and took him” (Matthew 26:49-50). Judas’ kiss wasn’t sincere. It concealed betrayal. Read Luke’s account: “And while he yet spake, behold a multitude, and he that was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them, and drew near unto Jesus to kiss him. But Jesus said unto him, Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?” (Luke 22:47-48).

ALSO READ: Rhapsody of Realities for 10 July 2026 — Mortify the Transactions Of the Body

 

This is the context for Paul’s instruction. He was emphasising sincerity, loyalty and truthfulness in our expressions toward one another. Don’t show affection outwardly while harbouring hatred and contrary thoughts inwardly. Express genuine love. Be honest without pretence.

The Bible says, “Let love be without dissimulation…” (Romans 12:9). Let your love not have hidden intentions. This goes beyond physical gestures. It speaks to your entire conduct—how you greet, how you relate, how you respond to others in the body of Christ; there should be no hypocrisy.

As God’s people, you’re called to a higher standard of living and relationship, not one shaped by suspicion or duplicity but by sincerity and truth. You don’t say one thing and mean another. You don’t act one way and think another. Your life must be consistent; your heart, your words, and your actions must align.

Also, you must exercise wisdom. Times have changed, and expressions may differ across cultures. What matters is not the form but the spirit behind it, which is genuine love, expressed with purity and discretion. So, when you show love and affection to others, let it be real. Let it be true. Let it reflect the love of Christ in your heart. That’s what makes it holy.

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PRAISEJAMZBLOG INSIGHT
 

Today's devotional reminds us that God is more concerned with the sincerity of our hearts than the outward expressions of our actions. As followers of Christ, we are called to love genuinely, speak truthfully, and relate to others with integrity. Our words, attitudes, and actions should consistently reflect the love and character of Jesus, free from hypocrisy or hidden motives. When we cultivate authentic relationships marked by kindness, honesty, and selfless love, we become powerful witnesses of Christ's transforming grace and strengthen the unity of the body of Christ.

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PRAYER/CONFESSION
 

Dear Father, I thank you for the love of Christ in my heart. I walk in sincerity, truth and genuine affection toward others. My words and actions are consistent, reflecting God’s nature in me. I express divine love with purity and wisdom, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

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FURTHER STUDY

Romans 12:9-10 NIV; 1 Peter 1:22; 1 Thessalonians 5:26

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Rhapsody of Realities devotional is written by Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, President of LoveWorld Inc. (Christ Embassy).