“Riding for the brand” this expression means “loyalty to a man’s employer or the particular outfit he rode for.” The brand was a symbol for those who lived and worked on the ranch—a visual representation of the values and principles they believed in. The cowboy dedicated himself to the boss and to the group, to values like discipline, focus, honesty, respect, and teamwork. The idea of riding for the brand can easily apply to our personal relationship with God.
From now on let no one cause me trouble, I bear branded on my body the marks of Jesus.
Galatians 6:17
In Romans 12 Paul tells us how to ride for Christ's brand.
Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you. Don’t curse them; pray that God will bless them. Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all! Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, “I will take revenge; I will pay them back,” says the Lord . Instead, “If your enemies are hungry, feed them. If they are thirsty, give them something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals of shame on their heads.” Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.
Romans 12:9-21 NLT
