Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2. NLT.

When you read this scripture, how does it make you feel? Scared? Happy to help other’s ? Glad there should be others to help you? Did you read the last part..and in this way to obey the law of Christ. There is something a little more serious and commanding when I hear the word law! How about to you? Laws are usually not considered optional for most people!

So it seems if we want to obey the law of Christ, we need to share, carry or bear each others burdens. So the question is, how do we do that? Let’s put it in context with the verse above it. Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back on the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself. Galatians 6:1. Paul admits here, that some believers will struggle with sin. It is our responsibility to help them overcome this sin. This is the first way we can help bear someone else’s burden. But it comes with some stipulations.

One, we must do it gently and humbly. I take this to mean no added judgment or shame. Our goal is to restore them to full fellowship. If we emotionally find ourselves appalled at the persons sin, we need to take some time and go back to the cross ourselves. It is so easy to let judgment and condemnation sneak in, which defeats the purpose. Only when we remember our own need for a Savior can we truly help with the ministry of reconciliation. Jesus warned the Pharisees about not added more weight to them. “For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men’s shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers” (Matt. 23:4.

If you have been praying for loved ones and co-workers, you must take the time to examine your own heart. Our pastor preached about our church being a welcoming church for all. It is with the understanding that transformation is God’s desire. I began to examine my own heart, thinking about what types of people would I find difficult to really receive. I admit, some showed up. I was humbled and convicted as His Spirit showed me those who He loves, but I struggle with. The good news is I can see how I have grown in opening my heart to more than before!

As I listened to this message, I also prayed for clearer steps our church can have for discipleship. If we believe God’s salvation message is for everyone, and transformation is also for everyone, then we must understand it is a process. The next question that came was , am I willing to be part of that transformation? The good news is this law of Christ is the law of love. This love applies to both myself and others. It’s not about me willing myself to get rid of judgment. It is up to me to let His love keep transforming me and you.

Faith, which works by love, is released. God’s Spirit begins to move with loving conviction and restoration takes place. We must see our brother and sister as valuable to the Kingdom. We must understand that Satan seeks to destroy them through their sin. We have been given the joy to help them overcome! But that can’t happen if we don’t have the faith to believe in God’s transforming power. Do you believe He can change the people you pray for? Or is it just something you do out of obligation?

The Word promises us that Jesus came to seek and to save all that was lost. When this truth radiates in our spirit, we will become a tool He can truly use. Spending time with Him, getting to know His love for yourself, will help us learn to love others, and this truly does fulfill the law of Christ–the law of love.

Father, thank you for helping us grow in this area. We desperately need your help to love others in a way that surpasses their faults. Even if they hurt us, we should assist in restoring them gently and humbly. Deal with our pride, and arrogance in every area, so we don’t fall into judgment and criticism. In Jesus’ Name, amen.