Please Others

“We who are strong ought to bear with the shortcomings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.”
– Romans 15:1-2


Paul speaks here not of superiority, but of responsibility. Those who are “strong”—whether in conviction, maturity, or understanding—are not called to dominate or dismiss those who are “weak.” Instead, they are called to bear with them, to carry the weight of difference, and to build them up in love.

This passage is a rebuke to the self-centeredness that so easily creeps into spiritual conversations. We may want to correct, win, or walk away, but Christ’s way is to stay—to serve, to listen, and to help others flourish. Our aim should never be self-satisfaction, but mutual edification.

To “please our neighbor” here doesn’t mean compromising truth, but prioritizing relationship. It means laying down our need to be right in order to be kind. When others struggle with faith or hold different views, our task is not to defeat them but to encourage them—to be patient and hopeful, knowing that God is at work in all of us.


Questions

1. Do you see yourself as one who is “strong” in any area of faith or conviction?

2. How can you bear with someone who thinks or lives differently without becoming frustrated or dismissive?

3. What does it look like to build someone up instead of proving a point?


Suggested Activity

Today, find a way to “build up” a fellow believer, especially someone whose faith or views you might typically struggle with. This could be a word of encouragement, an act of service, or a simple moment of listening. Let your love speak louder than your opinions.


Prayer

Lord God, 

You bore with my weakness long before I ever turned to You. Teach me to bear with others in the same spirit of grace. Help me not to seek my own comfort or pride, but to serve and strengthen those around me. May my words be filled with encouragement, and may my presence reflect the love of Christ to all Your children.

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

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