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August 9, 2015
"We
who are strong have an obligation to bear with
the failings of the weak, and not to please
ourselves." - Romans 15:1
Who
are the weak among us? In the context of
Romans 15:1, they are those who are weak in their
faith, lacking strength in their convictions,
uneducated and confused by strange
doctrines. Paul calls upon us, not to
separate ourselves from those who are weaker in
faith, but to literally lift their burdens.
It is way too easy to think of
ourselves as "strong" or "mature" and
to distance ourselves from those who are
"weaker." Maybe that distancing is not
something we are consciously aware of. Maybe it
is. The bottom line is the same. People
who need are hurting are instead wounded.
Those needing to grow are discouraged from
maturing in their faith. Damage to the Body
of Christ is created when we think too highly of
ourselves and too little of the graciousness of God
(especially towards us). Ultimately, the Body of
Christ grows weak and we fall far short of testifying
of Jesus to the glory of God.
It may be a huge
paradigm shift in our thinking to consider ourselves
as being placed in the Body of Christ not to have our
needs met. Hopefully, that isn't too great a
shift in thinking. If we are really "mature" in
our relationship with Jesus then one of our primary
goals should be the bearing up of those who are
weaker. Our energies and resources should
be poured into times of fellowship,
discipleship, edification and meeting real needs
in real time. Are we willing to bear this
burden?
Looking around, has God placed
someone in your life that you might share your life
with in such a way as to encourage growth in their
relationship with Jesus? Is there anyone
who needs someone to walk with them through
struggles? Maybe someone who could benefit by
your studying the Bible together? What steps
will you take this week to seek out and connect with
that person? Can't think of anyone?
Pray and ask God. God will lead you to someone
if you are willing.