Considering Others

Considering Others

The discipline of love usually shows up in our consideration for others.

At the checkout, most people drop their groceries, pay, and go. Few will look the cashier in the eye and realize that this is probably someone who’s had a long day, receives a small paycheck, and may be weighed down by a load of burdens. No one stops to consider this person.

But the discipline doesn’t stop at nothing. We’re not just to pull ourselves out of our thoughts to consider the existence of another; we’re also to consider them more important than we are.

So in this sense, consider doesn’t necessarily mean believe. Too often, in our selfishness, we may not believe others are more important, but by an act of will and focus, you can consider them so. As an act of disciplined love, you can honor them with kindness.

It’s a learned skill, to be sure. But the more you do it, the more you’ll find that you’re starting to believe they’re more important too.

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves. —Philippians 2:3