Romans 15:1–7 (ESV) —
1 We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 2 Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. 3 For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me.” 4 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. 5 May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, 6 that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.
NOTE: This is the very opposite of "personal rights," where a person makes choices that please themselves -- that is not the Christian life. Rather, the opposite is true, we have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, even if it interferes with our own desires and plans.
Jesus died for us, not to make earthly life great, but to save us from our sin. Since we have a sin-marred body, sin will always reign, and we will make poor choices. We need to crucify the flesh, that means letting go of our "personal rights," and choosing to consider others more important than ourselves. It is not that we don't love ourselves, we can't help but love ourselves, but we can do more to love others. We have an OBLIGATION to that end.
PONDER:
- Who am I really living for, myself or for others?
- How does it show in my life? What am I doing differently which communicates that people are important?
PRAYER: Father, as I start this new year, continue to transform me. Remove the selfishness and help me to exude grace to all.
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