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 our neighbors for their good, to build them up. For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: "The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me."
Among the last words of our Lord and Savior, Christ Jesus on the Cross of Calvary was, “I am thirsty” (John 19:28). Can you imagine being the one that lifted the wine vinegar-soaked sponge up to the lips of God in the flesh? All of us would have been more than willing to help Jesus overcome His thirst. We cannot do anything about that today, but we can satisfy another thirst of Christ Jesus, and that is to bring His water of the gospel to a thirsty world. Millions out there today are spiritually thirsty; although we don’t hear that term used very much, the need still exists. These spiritually thirsty people possess a need for a word from almighty God, even though many of them don’t realize it (Amos 8:11).
As mature Christians, we should not allow ourselves to slip into Satan’s trap of self-centeredness; our goal should be others-centered. In time or material aspects, giving to others is a sign of one that is continuing to grow in Christ Jesus—giving up what we see as legitimate liberty is a demonstration and indication of a Christ-centered love for other people.
When we measure ourselves, the comparative apparatus should not be other people; it should be Christ Jesus. However, we should never surrender our convenience to help those around us grow and mature in Christ Jesus. We should never hold ourselves in higher esteem when we think we are more mature than some around us. This self-aggrandizement is legalism, plain and simple, which always leads to immaturity in Christ Jesus. Legalism will never fail to bring a congregation of God’s people down to a level below the Grace of God and retard the spiritual growth of those trapped in its evil snare.
This verse of scripture is by no means meant to advocate or moralize overemotional agreeability. We should never give in to any circumstance that would require the truth, even if that is not what someone is seeking. If we went to the Doctor and he or she told us what we wanted to hear instead of the truth of our physical condition, it could shorten our stay in this life. It is the same in the spiritual realm; if we give someone a fantasy that they would like to hear instead of the truth they need, it could affect this life here and their eternal life as well.
As mature, washed in the blood, born again, followers and believers in Christ Jesus, we should always give way to the benefit of others. This preference and inclination of others above ourselves is a core value and principle in the Christian world.
Our Lord and Savior, Christ Jesus was the epitome and personification of that value and principle (Philippians 2:5-11). Christ Jesus endured and suffered the infirmities of weakness in us, and we should follow His firmness and steadfastness in our resolve toward other people (Philippians 2:4-5).
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