Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. —Romans 12:16.
“Don’t be conceited!” That’s a command for someone else, right? I don’t think I’ve ever met someone who genuinely felt they were conceited. But, when looking for someone we want to associate with, we seldom look for someone ignored by the crowd, forgotten by the pretty people, and easily overlooked by others. We want to “hang around with” those who are important, loved on social media, recognized as superstars, known as successful athletes, or beloved entertainers. We believe we deserve to be noticed and valued, too. That’s why Paul wrote this command for us. Remember who Jesus associated with. Remember what his brother, James, said about not showing favouritism or bias because people are considered “less than” (James 2:1-13). Jesus wants his church to have many different kinds of people because harmony only happens when people sing different notes in tune!