"Let no man seek his own, but every man another's wealth." 1 Corinthians 10:24
The word "wealth" may also be properly translated "welfare." If you want to lose friends, insist on talking about yourself and your own interests. If you would win friends, show an interest in their problems and trials. Paul could say: "Not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many" (I Corinthians 10:33). In this, Jesus is our great example, "For even Christ pleased not himself" (Romans 15:3).
There is a tradition connected with the site on which the Temple of Solomon was erected. It is said to have been occupied in common by two brothers, one of whom had a family, the other did not. On this spot was sown a field of wheat. On the evening succeeding the harvest, when the wheat had been gathered in separate shocks, the elder brother said to his wife, "My younger brother is unable to bear the burden and heat of the day. I will arise, take some of my shocks and place them in his field without his knowledge." The younger brother being actuated by the same benevolent motives, said within himself, "My elder brother has a family, and I have none. I will arise, take some of my shocks and place them with his." Imagine their mutual astonishment, when, on the following day, they found their respective shocks undiminished. This course of events transpired for several nights; then each resolved to stand guard and solve the mystery. They did so; and on the following night they met each other halfway between their respective shocks with their arms full. Upon ground hallowed by such associations as this was the Temple of Solomon erected - so spacious and magnificent that it became the wonder and admiration of the world! Alas! in these days how many would sooner steal their brother's whole shock than add to it a single sheaf!
"Bread For Each Day"
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