Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ. For if anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. But each one must examine his own work, and then he will have reason for boasting in regard to himself alone, and not in regard to another. For each one will bear his own load (Galatians 6:1-5).
He must be spiritual to have discernment; he must be gentle to gain an audience; and he must be contemplative to keep from falling into a reactionary sin.
The key of course is found in the latter part of our passage. It says, “For if anyone thinks himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself.” We must keep our hearts from anger and prejudice by careful examination and confession of our own sins.
We must focus on our vertical relationship more than our horizontal relationships. If our primary concern is to honor God, then our other relationships become a proving ground to that end.
I think we fail in this area when react in our own strength. Our ministry to others must be guided by Christ. If we subconsciously believe that we have some merit before God because we act better than another man, then we have lost our way.
Remember we stand because of the righteousness of Christ. Remembering that will help us to bear the burdens of others. It will also glorify the Father as we respond in love.
Father, remind us today and everyday to focus on loving you. When we see others doing wrong, give us the discernment to know what to say and how to say it. Otherwise, give us the patience to endure it until we are able to be of service. May we never look at others without first looking carefully at our own lives! Amen.
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