Getting Along With Others
Romans 12:15 Simple advice from Paul; be considerate of the feelings of others
Original images by Tom Pumford (L) and Gabrielle Henderson (R) via Unsplash
“Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.”
Romans 12:15 NASB1995
Looking over the posts I’ve written since Heaven On Wheels launched on March 4, 2022, I was surprised at just how many times the Book of Romans has been the source of a verse to study. Chapter 12 is the overwhelming source, with 8 of its 21 verses having been highlighted here so far.
Why has there been such an emphasis on Romans 12? Perhaps because it, more than any other single chapter in the New Testament, succinctly sums up all of the guidelines for Christian living. In fact, I think it should be singled out for reading by any believer — recently born again or lifelong follower — who desires to live a more godly life.
In this short verse and several others that are clustered in this part of the chapter, Paul instructs followers of Christ on how to get along with others — both within and outside of the church.
He follows the statement in Romans 12:15 with the command to be of the same mind toward one another (Romans 12:16). Put together, these two verses instruct Christians to show consideration for the feelings of others, rather than waiting for them to be considerate of your feelings.
Our self-centered society has flipped this teaching around, where many people become angry while waiting for others to knuckle under to their “feelings” (or more often, demands) and could care less about how others feel.
Through our humble observation and consideration of the emotions of others, we can be living examples of the love of Jesus.
Heaven On Wheels Daily Prayer:
Lord, I am grateful for the gift of the Holy Spirit dwelling in me and for the counsel You provide in purifying my life. May I always work to spread Your love and peace to all I meet, sharing their joys, sorrows, and burdens, and growing in fellowship. Jesus teaches that we should serve one another to become more humble, and I pray to achieve this grace in Jesus’ name. AMEN.