In The Word
Read: Romans 15:1-13
Self-denial in behalf of Others
15 Now we who are strong ought to bear the weaknesses of those without strength, and not just please ourselves. 2 Each of us is to please his neighbor for his good, to his edification. 3 For even Christ did not please Himself, but as it is written: “The taunts of those who taunt You have fallen on Me.” 4 For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. 5 Now may the God who gives perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another, according to Christ Jesus, 6 so that with one purpose and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
7 Therefore, accept one another, just as Christ also accepted us, for the glory of God. 8 For I say that Christ has become a servant to the circumcision in behalf of the truth of God, to confirm the promises given to the fathers, 9 and for the Gentiles to glorify God for His mercy; as it is written:
“Therefore I will give praise to You among the Gentiles,
And I will sing praises to Your name.”
10 Again he says,
“Rejoice, you Gentiles, with His people.”
11 And again,
“Praise the Lord all you Gentiles,
And let all the peoples praise Him.”
12 Again Isaiah says,
“There shall come the root of Jesse,
And He who arises to rule over the Gentiles,
In Him will the Gentiles hope.”
13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
New American Standard Bible (NASB) Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation
Walking In The Word
A life of unselfishness is what we are called to live. Jesus, being our greatest example, came to this earth and laid down His life. He laid it down to give life to everyone upon this earth. Now that He has given His life for us, He has bought us with His blood and redeemed us from the ransom of satan and his demonic forces. So we are to live our lives not for ourselves, but for the Lord Jesus Christ.
As we strengthen our lives in Jesus Christ, we should help those who are lost, weak in their faith, and struggling in life. They, just like us, need encouragement and guidance through God’s Word. Paul writes that the Scriptures were written for our encouragement, instruction, and inspiration.
Today, take time to meditate and make a list in your prayer journal of those people God has placed in your life around you. This list should compile of your family, friends, co-workers, etc. Now each day take time to pray for each of these people by name. God will then begin to put encouraging words on your heart for them and creative ways to help build and edify them. This is a very practical way to live unselfishly and consider others greater than yourself. Read Philippians 2:3-7 and see how the attitude of Jesus Christ was upon this earth. Now pray and ask the Lord to help you have this kind of heart so that He may use you to help reach out and disciple this earth.