Romans 15
15 We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 2 Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. 3 For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me.” 4 For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. 5 May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, 6 that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.
God commands us not to live for ourselves and calls us to live for others as Christ has done. When Christ came here on earth – it was not so that He will be pleased. When He died on Calvary – it was for our joy.
Now we all know that living for others is not our default mode – men tend to live for themselves but Paul tells us that God empowers His people to live not for themselves but for others.
This is what I love about Christ – when He commands us to do something He actually gives us the power to do so. Isn’t that amazing. With the help of the Holy Spirit, we receive transforming grace. Change is an inside job. The Holy Spirit does his work on us and transformation happens.