It is so American to demand our rights. And when our rights are violated, we are incensed!

For example, a silly thing like when we cut someone off while driving, we can expect honking and evil stare. If you are ever not given the promotion that you think you deserved, then you think about quitting and getting a different job. That’s because we think it is our “right” to such space and such job. And when our rights are violated, we react violently.

But it is Christian to give up our right for the sake of others.

Romans 14:15, “For if your brother is grieved by what you eat, you are no longer walking in love. By what you eat, do not destroy the one for whom Christ died.”

Paul is speaking of the Christian’s freedom to eat whatever he wants. It is his “right” as God made everything clean. However, if it causes a brother to fall, then I must be willing to give it up even though it is my right.

And that is the essence of Christianity. Jesus gave up His right to be treated as the Son of God so that we may be given the right to become the children of God. The world clamors for and demands their rights, but Christians give them up!

What rights have you given up for the sake of others? What comfort? What privileges?

Are you willing to give up your right so that others may become right with God?

PH