We Need Each Other

June 30, 2009

~Denise Grant

 

“If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!”  Ecclesiastes 4:10

 

Something to Think About:

 

~Are you comfortable sharing personal areas of concern and need with others?

~Why are we so often tempted to try to handle life without the support and encouragement of others?

~How have you been able to encourage others to grow in their walk with Christ?

 

     Deep in our souls, we all need the encouragement and support of others.

In the sixth chapter of Galatians, Paul defines some of the most practical principals for expressing love for one another.

 

     Galatians 6:1-3 - “Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other’s burdens and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself.”  We should be redemptive people, helping restore those who have been caught in a sin. If there is a Christian brother or sister who needs correction or encouragement, humbly and gently reach out to that person, but, be extra careful not to get trapped in sin yourself.

 

     Galatians 6:4 - “Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else.” Some people are all too ready to point out flaws in others in order to feel better about themselves. Others simply want reassurance that they are doing well. When you are tempted to compare yourself to others, look at Jesus Christ. His example will inspire you to do your very best, and His loving acceptance will comfort you when you fall short of your goals. Paul is also challenging us to love others unconditionally and without judgment or comparison.

 

     Galatians 6: 5 - For each one should carry his own load.” When someone has burdens that are bigger than any one person should handle alone, we are to step in to help.

 

     Galatians 6:6 – “Anyone who receives instruction in the word must share all good things with his instructor” It is our responsibility to take care of the material needs of those who teach us; preachers, teachers, spiritual leaders, etc. With a generous spirit, showing honor and appreciation for their service, we should not grudgingly or reluctantly neglect to take care of them.

 

     Galatians 6:7-8 - “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.” It’s a law of life – both physical and spiritual – you reap what you sow. Every action comes with results. If you plant to please your own desires, you’ll reap a crop of sorrow and evil; if you plan to please God, you’ll reap joy and everlasting life.  What kinds of seeds are you sowing in the soil of your life?

 

     Galatians 6:9 – “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Let’s be honest. Some people are difficult to love (they’re affectionately referred to as: “Sandpaper people”), but if we don’t lose faith in God’s power to authentically change their lives, our persistence may be the very thing that makes the difference between them finding God’s forgiveness and peace or never receiving God’s mercy and grace in their hearts.

 

     Paul ultimately challenges us to keep on doing what is right and to trust God for the results.

 

God Will…

 

Be pleased with your love for your neighbor – “Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman, has fulfilled the law.” Romans 13:8

 

Reproduce His love in you – “We love because he first loved us.” 1 John 4:19

 

Hear your prayers as you pray for each other – “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.” James 5:16

 

 

“For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them.” Matthew 18:20 ____________________________________________________________

Dear God,

 

     Thank You that you didn’t create us to live in isolation, but to help one another to seek and find You. Point me in the direction of someone I can reach out to today and share Your love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Denise Grant - Just "clay" in the Master Potter's hands.

 

The man who walks with God always gets to his destination.

If you have a  pulse you have a purpose.