Paul shares a good word about being sensitive to our brothers and sisters with weaknesses or shortcomings.
1We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. 2Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. 3For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: "The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me."[a] 4For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. 5May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, 6so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Fred's Reflections: Every Christian doesn't have it all together all the time. The truth is, sometimes we struggle. In those cases, the last thing the struggling Christian needs is for someone to "put him or her on blast" Instead, we should listen to them with sensitivity, pray for them and encourage them that they can overcome through the mighty power of Jesus Christ! If necessary, we can pray with them and walk with them, holding them accountable if they need it. The key to helping a struggling Christian is humility, love and speaking the truth. Do not excuse their sin, but let them know that God has helped you to overcome and he will help them as well. Most of all challenge them to stay in the word and be transformed by the renewal of their minds.
Prayer: Save me from self righteousness when it comes to ministering to struggling Christians. Help me to remember that others have helped me in my times of struggle. Help me to reach out to them with a spirit of humility, while speaking the truth in love. In Jesus Name, Amen
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