Galatians 6:9-10
So let’s not allow ourselves to get fatigued doing good. At the right time we will harvest a good crop if we don’t give up, or quit. Right now, therefore, every time we get the chance, let us work for the benefit of all, starting with the people closest to us in the community of faith.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
There is a cartoon in our state newspaper that I read most every day called ”The Duplex.” It features a man and his dog (who talks like a human). In today’s strip, the dog was looking at some images on the computer, and his owner noted the picture of a man with “good abs.” He then added, “I don’t know why I struggle with belly fat.” The dog suggested that his owner try drinking less beer, and the owner replied, “I’m pretty sure what you just said is a hate crime.” Sometimes, we really don’t want to hear the truth!
How many times have you started a project – or a diet – and given up when you lost interest, didn’t see results quickly enough, or simply retreated into bad habits? Even with the best intentions, we often have trouble sticking with changes of any kind. I have become reliant on my regular walks and a healthier diet. I feel terrible when I miss a day or two of walking and/or eat too many carbs and “heavy” foods. And yet, when I am tired, it is so easy to just throw up my hands and say, “What will it hurt for a day or two?!” This lapse can easily turn into three or four days – or a whole week. And soon we are right back in old habits, to our own detriment and that of others around us.
We are going to have to work hard to keep this from happening in our personal and Spiritual lives. When someone treats us with unkindness, we are going to be tempted to walk away – or retaliate! When we see hatred, discrimination, bias, bigotry, and exclusion in action, we may want to speak or act with judgment – or to cut those people completely out of our lives and circle of influence. When “life” gets too hard, we may want to retreat back into our own comfort zone and quietly go about our life. But Paul reminds us that we must not do any of these things.
We must stand tall…we must live and love for Jesus – and as He taught us. We must gently and patiently speak up for those who are oppressed and against behaviors that do not line up with Christ’s teachings. We must persevere and continue to love others – even when they are unlovely. And we must especially encourage our brothers and sisters in Christ. We all struggle from time to time – and we need each other! We must be awake and alert to the needs of our fellow believers and humbly encourage them to stay strong, patient, and persistent in their discipleship.
Since we are all human, we are subject to temptation, frustration, impatience, and a spirit of defeat when the going gets tough. And some of us flat out don’t want to hear the truth – like the fact that too much of XYZ makes your belly fat! Don’t turn your back on this message from Paul. Stay the course! Keep seeking Christ’s word and will for your life and operating in His love at all times – with all people and circumstances. Alleluia!
©2023 Debbie Robus
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