Putting Your Brother First

“No one should seek his own good, but the good of the other person.” (1 Corinthians 10:24)

As a Christian you are obliged to view your actions in light of how they will affect other Christians. You will discover God's will for your life when you consider His activity in the lives of others. This goes contrary to worldly thinking. The world encour­ages you to live your own life, taking care of your own needs and wants first. Sin promotes independence. It isolates you from others and separates you from those you could help or who could encour­age you. God designed you for interdependence.

Whenever you meet another Christian, you come face-to-face with Christ (John 13:20). There ought to be a deep respect within you as you encounter other lives guided by the Holy Spirit. Do not live as if you have no responsibility toward your Christian brothers or sisters. God holds you accountable for how you relate to them. Don’t revel in your “freedom in Christ to the point that you neglect your responsibility toward others” (Rom. 14:15). Paul celebrated his freedom in Christ, but he was keenly sensitive to what might cause other Christians harm (1 Cor. 8:13). He was aware that his sin could not take place in isolation but could bring pain to many others (1 Cor. 5:6).

You have a responsibility to live in such a way that you do not hurt others. You must deny yourself and allow the Holy Spirit to put to death your natural inclination to be self-centered. As long as you focus on yourself, you will be oblivious to the needs of others. Ask God to free you from selfishness so that your life is free to bless others.

HB.RB.