Verse of the Day: Romans 12:3
Verse of the Day
Tuesday, July 1, 2025
Romans 12:3
For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of yourself more highly than you ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.
Introduction
Romans 12 marks a turning point in Paul’s letter—shifting from deep theological exposition to practical instruction for Christian living. In verse 3, Paul begins his appeal by urging humility and right thinking about oneself, anchoring his words in the grace of God and the shared life of the Church.
Commentary
Paul speaks here with apostolic authority ("by the grace given to me") to instruct every believer to adopt a posture of humility. The Greek phrase translated as “think of yourself more highly” (ὑπερφρονεῖν hyperphronein) carries the sense of arrogance or inflated self-opinion. Instead, believers are to “think with sober judgment” (σωφρονεῖν sōphronein), a word related to soundness of mind and self-control. The “measure of faith” given by God refers not to differing quantities of saving faith, but to the unique role or gift entrusted to each believer within the Body of Christ. Paul’s admonition is thus rooted in both grace and community: right self-assessment must flow from a recognition of God’s gifting rather than self-generated pride.
Understanding the Context
This verse follows Paul’s well-known appeal in Romans 12:1–2 to present our bodies as a living sacrifice and to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Romans 12:3–8 then explores how this transformation plays out in the Christian community. The metaphor of the body and its members (vv. 4–5) illustrates how each person’s role is essential but different. Paul’s instruction in verse 3 sets the tone: if members of the body think too highly of themselves, the unity and function of the Church are threatened. In the Roman world, where social status and honor were highly prized, Paul’s words subvert the prevailing culture and reframe worth according to God’s grace.
Application for Today
In a society that often measures worth by achievement, image, or influence, Paul’s counsel is countercultural. We are reminded not to overestimate our importance or compare ourselves competitively with others. Instead, we are called to sober-minded self-awareness grounded in God’s gifting and purpose. This mindset fosters unity, cooperation, and mutual respect in Christian communities. Whether we lead, serve, teach, or quietly encourage others, we are to do so with gratitude and humility, recognizing that all gifts and opportunities come from God.
Reflection
Take a moment to ask: How do I view myself in relation to others? Am I puffed up by pride, or discouraged by self-doubt? Paul invites us into a holy balance—not thinking too highly or too lowly, but rightly—anchored in grace. May we learn to see ourselves through God’s eyes: beloved, gifted, and called to serve with sober judgment and joyful humility.
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Bible, copyright © 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Verse of the Day is a daily inspirational and encouraging Bible verse extracted from BibleGateway.com. Commentary by Kenny Sallee, ThM.
