In Romans 15:1-2(MSG) it says "Those who are strong and able in the faith need to step in and lend a hand to those who falter, and not just do what is most convenient for us. Strength is for service, not status. Each one of us need to look after the good of the people around us, asking ourselves, How can I help?"

This is such a powerful instruction. Why is it important? What does it mean? Consider the hustles and bustles of our everyday lives. Sometimes we can get so caught up on our own things that we don't take time to check on others or our loved ones who may very well just need to know that they're thought of. Do you remember a time where you were in a difficult place and someone thought enough to see about you? When's the last time....?

There is a noticeable difference between today's times and those previous. One thing I've observed is the fact that society has influenced us to be so selfish. We operate in an every-man-for-himself mentality and the scary part is that it goes unnoticed. I can remember my grandmother talking about how back in the day, when one struggled they all struggled. People used to go borrow from one another and help each other out because that was what they did. It was apart of their culture. Oh but isn't it funny how things have changed? Now a daysyou can't get people to lend anything or even offer to help someone. And of course there are many reasons as to why that is the case now but helping someone doesn't mean lending money or borrowing. It could be something as simple as a smile or simply asking how are you? But we've seemed to have forgotten what that is, up until the tables are turned.

I find it extremely ironic how we can sometimes watch people go through and not say anything, but as soon as it's our turn to go through, we talk about who's not there and who did or didn't do what. The truth of the matter is everybody's going to have a rainy day but will you be an umbrella when your sun is shining? What I want you to understand is that you have to be careful how you handle and treat people. The tables can turn quickly and how you treat people ultimately affects who'll be there for you in your time of need. There's an old saying "Do good and good will come back to you." I've witnessed, on more than one occasion, this saying hold true. It costs nothing to be nice and considerate.

I know life comes at us fast and it's easy to get consumed in our own issues but there's a blessing in helping others. I've had personal situations where I know I've had nothing to give but God would send people my way. And just when I thought I had nothing to give, God would allow me to be able to encourage, uplift, and be there for people even in my own turmoil. The significance in all of it was the shift in my situation all because I was willing to be there for other people. I've watched countless situations in my life turn around all because I was considerate of others. Being selfless is not an easy task but it's worth it. So the next time you hit a rough patch or you see someone in a predicament, consider lending a helping hand and keep in mind that you once need a helping hand yourself. It pays to be considerate. When's the last time....?