All Must Carry

Their Own Loads

My friends, if anyone is detected in a transgression, you who have received the Spirit should restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness. Take care that you yourselves are not tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. For if those who are nothing think they are something, they deceive themselves. All must test their own work; then that work, rather than their neighbor's work, will become a cause of pride. For all must carry their own loads.

Those who are taught the word must share in all good things with their teacher.

Do not be deceived; God is not mocked, for you reap whatever you sow. If you sow to your own flesh, you will reap corruption from the flesh; but if you sow to the Spirit, you will reap eternal life from the Spirit. So let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest time, if we do not give up. So then, whenever we have an opportunity, let us work for the good of all, and especially for those of the family of faith.

Galatians 6:1-10

We can be high on a rollercoaster at one moment and the next, sliding down that same rollercoaster not knowing what is around the next corner. People are like that too, and some people need more help than others. Treat people with respect. Be gentle when you try to restore them, but don't do something they should do for themselves. You do not have the power to change another person. But you can ask God to help you become the person He wants you to be. Reach out in love. Seek God's wisdom in what to say and do in each encounter. Then rebuke or be silent - but in love. Depend on God. You will make mistakes. Anchor yourself in God's Word and continually commit yourself and your loved one to the Lord in prayer. Making some of these choices can help to slow down the rollercoaster ride of changing emotions.

Love helps people even when it hurts.

Our Daily Bread - March 19, 2005