Central Truth

We are all brothers and sisters in Christ and are all equal in His eyes; we must help those struggling with sin or difficult circumstances.

Reflections

Paul says that all of us who believe in Christ are one community in Him.  If any one of us stumbles or faces challenging times, then each of us, as members of the Christian community, should reach out and graciously help the one who is struggling. 

To me, this passage from Paul's letters to the Church in Galatia shows how important it is to recognize that we are all equal in Christ's eyes, and that regardless of circumstances, each of us must extend a helping hand to those who are struggling with sin or hard circumstances.  But we must do this gently, humbly and wisely, not with a prideful attitude.  

Paul also provides us with cautionary verses warning us not to fall into sin in the process of rendering help.  This includes temptation to compare our life and circumstances to those of others.  The only comparison any of us should ever make is to the life of Jesus Christ.  

I repeatedly fall into the trap of comparing myself to others and wondering why I am not healthier, happier, richer or I often worry what others may think of me.  Such comparisons can cause me to stay focused on myself and not on how God has equipped me to help others in their times of need.

Father God, please open my eyes and my heart to the needs of those around me.  Please grant me the courage to reach out to those who have fallen or are struggling and to cast aside my own timidity and fear. 

Discussion Questions

1. What one thing can you do to reach out to those in need in your community?
2. What steps must we take to avoid the temptation of comparison?
3. How can we free ourselves from timidity?
4. What must you do to become a courageous Christian?