Bible Reading: Psalm 132-135; 1 Corinthians 8.
Memory Verse: “Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend.” 1 Corinthians 8:13 (KJV).
The Lord Jesus Christ left his kingdom in heaven and came to the earth; made himself of no reputation and took on the form of a servant and was made in the likeness of men (Philippians 2:7) so that he could save us the sinners! This is the mind of Christ which we are enjoined to also have. The Bible says in Philippians 2:3-4 (KJV), “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. [4] Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.”
This can only be done out of love! It entails leaving your right for the sake of winning your brother to Christ. Though you have been called into liberty, having been freed from the law of sin and death (Romans 8:1), you are to use the liberty in love. This is why Apostle Paul reminds believers that though you may have right to do anything, you must consider that you do not offend the conscience of others while exercising your liberty! So don’t let the knowledge of your freedom make you puffed up but let it be ruled by charity which edifies! ( 1 Corinthians 8:1)
So whatever you will do that may cause your brethren to stumble in their faith possibly because of their background or knowledge, you should not do it though it is lawful! Hence, Apostle Paul said in 1 Corinthians 8:13 (KJV), “Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend.”
Being considerate also entails supporting or helping your brethren in times of need when you are in a position to do so. You may not have the particular thing needed but could offer advice or connect them to those that will be able to meet the need. In other situations, it may just be giving the right counsel or explaining the word of God to them. All it boils down to is showing love to others including those who do not share your faith recognizing that all human beings are creations of God. This is well summarized by John the Baptist when the people were asking him what to do. “He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise.” Luke 3:11 (KJV)
Action Point:
Be considerate to all people around you.
Bro. Biodun Oyapero