DAILY DEVOTIONAL, Aug 10, 2023
Minding one’s own business

“We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up.”

Romans 15:1-2

In this age when people need not ask a person about what’s going on in his life because social media oversharing is the norm, genuine concern can sometimes be difficult to express and discern. Difficult because it may be too awkward to ask a ranting person about how her day was when she has just laundered her dirty linens in her recent posts. At the same time, if one has posted about something unfortunate that has happened in her life, that person can never be so sure that everyone who expressed concern about her are really sincere about wishing her well.

Regardless of which situation we usually find ourselves, the Bible encourages us to express sincere kindness towards others. In his letter to the Colossians, St. Paul the Apostle mentioned the importance of showing genuine care: “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” (Colossians 3:12)

At the same breath we should also be conscious about not overstepping our bounds in the guise of being concerned. In his letter this time to the Thessalonians he encouraged them to mind their own business:  “and to aspire to live quietly, and to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands, as we instructed you,” (1 Thessalonians 4:11).

At the end of the day, prioritizing one’s relationship with the Lord will be key in living one’s life in accordance to God’s will. When we are walking with the spirit, we will be able to show sincere love for others, yet be intentional enough to live a quiet life that glorifies the Lord.

Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to read Romans 15:1-7 to dig deeper on today’s topic.

Reflection Question: How do you show compassion towards people around you and to your non-family members? What are the ways you could make them feel loved by the Lord through you?

Conversation with the Lord: Dear heavenly father, I thank you for the opportunity to care for the people in my life. Please help me be a conduit of your love and blessings to others, especially those who are despairing. Amen.