In our society today, one of the most pressing challenges we face is the widespread lack of consideration. This absence of thoughtfulness and empathy, whether in individuals or organizations, is a symptom of a deeper deficiency in understanding and compassion. Its impact is profound, leading to strained relationships and a decline in the overall well-being of our communities. To address this issue and restore harmony in various aspects of our society, including marriages, families, churches, businesses, and government, we must start by believing in considering ourselves and then sharing it with others.

Consideration is not a passive act but an active choice to be mindful and empathetic towards others. As Philippians 2:4 reminds us, “Let each of you look not only to his own interests but also to the interests of others (ESV).” These words serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of considering the needs and concerns of others. They call us to rise above our own interests and actively consider the well-being of those around us. In the Christian faith, this is known as benevolent love, a facet of “Agape” love or God’s complete and mature love. We can foster deeper connections and understanding in our relationships by embracing empathy in our consideration.

The absence of consideration is deeply harmful in all relationships. It gives rise to heated arguments, frustrating emotions, and a profound imbalance in any relationship. This lack of consideration erodes trust and creates an environment that lacks safety, ultimately harming people emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually. Relationships degrade when people fail to consider others, leaving individuals feeling undervalued, misunderstood, and unloved. It is truly devastating to witness and experience in our day and age. By understanding the gravity of this issue, we can better appreciate the need for change and the positive impact that consideration can bring.

The solution to the lack of consideration is grace. We must learn to foster an environment of thoughtfulness, empathy, and mindfulness in our interactions and relationships. By actively considering the needs and feelings of others, we can contribute to a more respectful and harmonious reality. This is achieved through active listening, demonstrating genuine concern for the well-being of others, and promoting open communication, gratitude, and appreciation for others' perspectives. These efforts can help address and mitigate or erase the effects of a lack of consideration in various settings, ultimately contributing to healthier relationships and interactions overall.

As Philippians 2:4 emphasizes, consistently being considerate of others is a call to cultivate the Christlike trait of consideration. It plays a crucial role in fostering healthy interactions and relationships everywhere, reflecting the fundamental aspect of human nature to care for and respect one another. Today, let us choose to end the thoughtlessness that plagues our society and instead embrace consideration. By doing so, everyone benefits from a more harmonious and caring environment because you just believe in consideration.

With genuine thoughtfulness and love,

Pastor Drake