Scripture - Romans 15:1-2 We then who are strong ought to bear with the scruples of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 2 Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, leading to edification.
Observation - The Roman church was wrought with individuality and competition to be the best. The instructions given here by Paul tell the strong to bear the burdens of the weak and to go out of your way to please your neighbor. Today that same is true. In modern society there is a distinct push to be the best, to beat everyone else, to out pace and out do everyone. The individuality of our nation has divided and separated people. Paul as well as Christ instructs us to not only bear the burdens of our neighbor but to serve our neighbor, go out of the way to please them - do something for them - serve them when there is no reward for us. These kind of actions cause a harmonious culture where all needs are being met. We must take our focus off of our needs and place them on someone else.
Application - As a pastor - I not only need to live selfless service - I must find a way to teach selfless service. There are those that are weak all throughout our community and the only way to make a Godly impact is to find and bear their burdens. I must find those burden.
Prayer - Father help me to find those burdens that you are concerned with. The burdens that you would ask to be addressed. Father help me to look at life today in terms of others needs and desires and weaknesses and build them up.
