Contemplative Bible Reading

Romans 15:1 (New Living Translation)

We who are strong must be considerate of those who are sensitive about things like this. We must not just please ourselves.

In his letter to the Roman church, Paul has just finished discussing eating this and doing that. He discussed parts of the culture of the day that bring questions to the mind of some Christians regarding the propriety of such things.

I like the words used in this New Living Translation:

be considerate of those who are sensitive about things like this

Think about those people who are sensitive about these things. Try to feel what they feel. Consider their background, their experiences, and what causes them to be sensitive. People with alcoholism in their family are sensitive about alcohol. People with gambling addiction in their family are sensitive about casinos and lotteries. People with all sorts of addictions and pain in their families are sensitive about all sorts of things that may not bring the slightest thought to my mind.

I am not here just to please myself.

That is difficult to remember at times, but that should be in the forefront of my mind and heart.