Friday, July 17, 2009
Romans 15:1-6
15:1 We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me.” For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. (ESV)
by John H. Camenga
“What’s in it for me?” is the theme for most of the world’s population. Unscrupulous leaders manipulate people with promises of ever-increasing benefits. We look with jealousy on what others have and expect the same. We are advised to “look out for number one.”
Today’s Scripture presents a stark contrast. Believers must “look out for the other guy.” Paul says, “Let each of you please his neighbor for his good, to his edification,” He reminds us that even Christ did not just please Himself. Jesus said he came not to be served but to serve. Christianity must regain its counter-cultural willingness to be a servant church and a servant people.
Copyright Information
Daily Bible Meditations are taken from The Helping Hand,a Sabbath School student quarterly for youth and adults. Copyright © 2010, Seventh Day Baptist Board of Christian Education, Inc.
Scripture quotations marked "ESV" are taken from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. Copyright ©2001 by Crossway Bibles, a division of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Text provided by the Crossway Bibles Web Service.
