We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. — Romans 15:1
Many years ago, just as many couples do, my wife and I said our vows to each other. There were many pieces of the day that I don’t remember, but I do remember many of the words of those vows. As is the case in many other weddings, we promised to care for each other in sickness, in health, whether rich or poor, and until death do we part.
But there were some other words that were said that day. As I repeated the words, I remember promising to place her happiness in front of my own. I recall promising that her priorities would become my priorities and that our family would be the most important thing to me. In other words, my life took a back seat to the life we were creating together.
While those promises were made as part of our marriage, the concepts also apply to any Christian life. Paul reminds the Romans here of the importance of bearing up those who are weak. But the words “not to please ourselves” really jump out in this verse.
The idea is that this is not for self-gratification. This is truly putting others in front of ourselves. It is denying ourselves for others. That concept is a difficult one for many in our world today. But for the Christian, it is something that we should be putting into practice every day!
Around us, there are people in need both spiritually and physically. As Christians, we should focus on those in need, bearing them up to God. Not for some type of recognition or thank you. Instead, it should be out of the same love that Christ showed to us.
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