STRENGTH EXPRESSED IN SERVICE

 

Romans 15:1-3  We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please his neighbour for his good, to build him up. For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: "The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me." (NIV)
 

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You can read the verses around this Bible passage from the Internet Bible: - in English, and many other languages

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Our human nature delights to use our own strength for our own purposes. This includes our abilities, possessions, relationships and even the spiritual understanding we treasure. However, Paul taught the church in Rome that strength is best expressed in service. Serving other people does not only mean doing things for them or meeting their needs; but also being patient with them and giving them space to work through their struggles.

God places an obligation on those who believe in Christ not to despise those who are struggling spiritually, but rather to support them. That was true of the Lord Jesus: in order that we might be built up, He allowed Himself to be the Suffering Servant, even though people did not understand Him and insulted Him.

Let us be very careful to consider how our actions and attitudes may either build up another believer in their faith or cause them to fall. Patience (two words in the Greek: long + wrath) does not condone what is wrong or support what is false. However, patience is God's gracious quality of giving us time and opportunity to understand, repent, and reform. If God is like that with us, should we also not be divinely patient with others?

Prayer:  Most patient and loving God. Thank You that Jesus Christ showed how much He was willing to bear with our weaknesses. Thank You for Your patience towards me, allowing me the opportunity to understand You better and repent. I am sorry when I have disregarded the tender conscience of others or failed to appreciate the struggles which some have had. Please give me Your grace and wisdom to be patient in the face of error and insults, knowing that You are at work - even amongst those who oppose me. In Jesus' Name. Amen.