Consideration

<<thoughtfulness>>

A considerate person thinks of others, rather than demanding their own way. The golden rule of “Doing to others as we would they do to us” is a good motto to live by (Lk 6:31). Joseph wanted to spare Mary the public disgrace of being an unmarried mother (Mt 1:19). Be tactful – everyone has their trying days. Scripture particularly challenges husbands to be ‘considerate of your wives’, understanding some times of the month can be very taxing on them, and fathers not to irritate their children (Eph 6:4; 1 Pet 3:7).

The Bible instructs us to be caring and respectful of others, setting forth Christ as the ultimate example (Rom 15:1-3; Eph 4:2; Phil 2:3-5, 4:5). Jesus illustrated this attitude with the parable of the Good Samaritan whose kindness to the wounded traveller extended to meet his full recovery (Lk 10:33-35). "Nobody should seek their own good, but the good of others...for with such sacrifices God is well

Is consideration of others a characteristic of my life?

pleased" (1 Cor 10:24; Tit 3:2; Heb13:16).

We should even refrain from various legitimate things if it could be the cause of another stumbling in their Christian walk (Rom 14:13,19-21; 1 Cor 8:9-13; 2 Cor 6:3).

See also: concern, golden rule, others.