Romans 15:1-2 (NKJV) Bearing Others’ Burdens
1 We then who are strong ought to bear with the scruples of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 2 Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, leading to edification.
Each and every day, people make choices. Some choose to do what is good for themselves while others choose to take care of others around them. Why do some look after others? What makes someone selfish? How are we supposed to live?
Paul tells us what God says about how to live. He tells us that the strong are supposed to take care of the weak. Instead of looking after our own interests, we are supposed to please our neighbor for their good. He tells us it leads to edification.
Edification is building one another up. Have you built someone up today? TV shows us Superheroes but what about the everyday heroes? What about the people who look after their neighbors daily? We don’t see too much of that on the evening news yet I know there are heroes all around. We have friends who have taken in foster children. Because of our friends, we decided to become Foster Parents. In fact, through Foster Parenting, we have met many incredible everyday heroes. There is a whole network of people we have met through Foster and Adoptive Family Services who look after the least of these every day. One thing is for sure. You find what you seek. If you listen to the news about bad things, that is what will fill your mind. Why not look for the real everyday heroes. There are many in the world around you who are looking out for others. Why not becomes one of them. In this season, many exhibit the Christmas Spirit. I ask you to live that Spirit all year long. Every day, be a hero to someone! No matter how small you think the gesture might be, it can mean more than you will ever know to someone! It doesn’t take much to be a hero. Give out smiles. Give out kind words. If appropriate, give out hugs! When someone is having a bad day, remind them God still loves them. Be someone’s hero today. Do something for the benefit of another. You won’t believe what it will do for your frame of mind too. Be a good finder and build others up. The rewards are incredible!
Sovereign Lord, help us to live lives that build others up. You are our hero. By Your example, teach us how to be heroes to those who need reassurance. Let us follow Your lead and strengthen those whose faith is weaker. May our courage in our walk with You strengthen and encourage them and turn their hearts toward You. Grant that we might win some for the Kingdom. In Your name we pray! Amen!