Being first! Leading the way! Out front! Is that the place we seek? Such could be viewed as being very self-centered. However, there is a sense in which such a desire is precisely the right focus.
In his letter to Christians at Rome, Paul urged. . .
“(9) Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. (10) Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.” (Romans 12:9-10 ESV)
The genuine love, the brotherly affection, the honoring of each other; all that marks a specialness of the relationship we as Christians are to share. The last phrase of the text reads in some other translations as follows: “. . . Honor one another above yourselves.” (NIV) “. . . Give preference to one another in honor;” (NASB) “. . . In honour preferring one another.” (KJV) The Greek word is “proegeomai” which means “to go before and show the way, to go before and lead, to go before as a leader.” [source: Strong’s Lexicon] The idea is that of stepping out front and taking the lead in considering and honoring others. Imagine how the sight of Christians eager to forget self and honor one another could impact the world! What a powerful display of loving consideration. Remember how Jesus stated the thing that would help the world see His followers were His disciples was by their love for one another. (John 13:35)
Taking the lead! Stepping out front in focusing the attention on others! What a wonderful way to encourage. What a marvelous picture of a servant heart. What an amazing way to eliminate competition for personal status by striving to be first to serve and honor others. With each of us striving to do this, what a beautiful and encouraging spirit will be experienced in the family of God. May we each step out in doing it!
Have a great day OUT FRONT WITH OTHER-CENTEREDNESS!
Carl
