Many Truths of Burden-Bearing

Scripture: 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 for pride. For all must carry their own loads. Galatians 6:1-5

Observation: In discussing ways to support one another, Paul provides the famous instruction to "bear one another's burdens" (v2). However, all around this line are several other matters being addressed. In order:

-- If a believer has a transgression, gently assist them to restoration.

-- Be careful yourself not to fall into similar transgressions.

-- Do not be prideful by considering yourself "something" (superior) when helping others.

-- Consider your own actions and behavior carefully.

-- Be concerned that you are doing rightly over how you help others do rightly.

-- Everyone must endure the life challenges God has given them.

Taken together, there is a theme. We are to love others by helping them during times of burden and hardship. However, we would do well to ensure we ourselves do not fall into transgressions and thus take on burdens, to not feel proud when we help others, and finally to be prepared ourselves to seek God's help when we have hardships in life.

Application: It is a wonderful thought to "bear one another's burdens" as a way of showing love to others. However, we must not become prideful of doing so ... simply caring for others when they have problems isn't the goal. The goal is to become strong in faith - each of us - so we can endure life due to our reliance on and trust in the Lord. When someone needs help, we do so quietly, gently, without pride that we did it, and while being weary ourselves of avoiding similar pitfalls as we could easily do.

Bearing burdens is great. Doing so properly is important. Preparing all - myself included - to be strong enough to manage burdens on our own is desired.

Prayer: Lord, I have had burdens in life. I have been quietly supported by some, and I have shouldered much of it myself. I hope that, in this way, myself and others have done as you would advise. May I be a quiet, humble burden-bearer for others, as you would guide me. Amen.