[300 words]
One of the great blessings of being part of the Lord’s church is knowing that we do not have to face life alone. God has placed Christians together so that we can strengthen, encourage, comfort, and help one another. Paul wrote, “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2). Every Christian carries burdens. Some are visible, while others are hidden. A faithful Christian does not simply ask, “How are you?” We should be willing to help carry the load.
Sometimes that help is physical. First John 3:17 asks, “But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him?” If we have the ability to help a brother or sister, love should move us to act.
Sometimes the need is emotional. Paul commanded, “Comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all” (1 Thessalonians 5:14). A visit, a phone call, a meal, or a few encouraging words may be exactly what someone needs to keep going.
Sometimes the need is spiritual. Galatians 6:1 teaches that when a Christian is overtaken in sin, those who are spiritual should seek to restore that person “in a spirit of gentleness.” Helping one another includes caring enough to encourage faithfulness.
Jesus said, “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35). Christian love should be seen, not merely spoken. Look around the congregation. Who is struggling? Who is lonely? Who needs encouragement? Who needs help?
“Through love serve one another” (Galatians 5:13). When Christians help Christians, burdens become lighter, faith becomes stronger, love becomes visible, and the church becomes what God intended it to be.
Jonathan Burns
Findlay church of Christ
Sparta, TN