MONDAY November 2, 2020
The Strong Are to Bear the Weak
We then who are strong ought to bear with the scruples of the weak, and not to please ourselves.
Romans 15:1
As we come to the end of the book of Romans, I believe it has been like a breath of fresh air to us. Paul’s teachings have caused us to learn how to live the Christian life. Through many exhortations, Paul has revealed his heart to us and in doing so, he has revealed to us the heart of God.
Paul had dealt with petty arguments between believers concerning their Christian liberties. I find, Christians still argue about: eating, drinking, clothing, what a person watches on television or reads, and what they listen to. Understand, God has given each person Christians liberties; He has given them the Holy Spirit. Yet many times people will act like the Holy Spirit in a persons’ life. We should not do that.
Paul urged Christians to join him in bearing with the failings or infirmities of the weak. A younger Christian can make a lot of mistakes––they trip and fall––they are not perfect. A more mature Christian should come alongside and instruct them in love––not always rebuking them. Those who are stronger need to bear with the burdens, failings and scruples of the weak. They should not please themselves. Christians need to continually walk in love. It is important to have a heart to help the weak, to build them up in Christ and not tear them down, otherwise they will get discouraged and leave the faith.
Mature Christians need to assist others in their growth, then they will bloom like a beautiful plant in the kingdom of God. Allow younger believers to be free in Christ Jesus, let them make their mistakes. We can give them good counsel–– the Word of God, but let the Holy Spirit straighten them out. Those who are constantly rebuking people, and questioning their liberties will cause them to be in a place of bondage; they will make them stumble.
…when you thus sin against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, you sin against Christ.
~1 Corinthians 8:12~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
