We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.

(Romans 15:1–2, NIV)

It was a sunny Saturday morning at the golf course, and Joe stood over his ball, visualizing the perfect swing, the perfect contact, the perfect flight of the ball. Just then, the clubhouse loudspeaker crackled to life:

“Would the gentleman on the women’s tee please move back to the men’s tee, please!”

Joe tried to stay focused, ignoring the interruption. But moments later it came again:  “Would the man on the women’s tee kindly back up to the men’s tee!”

Frustrated and embarrassed, Joe shouted back, “Would the announcer in the clubhouse kindly shut up and let me play my second shot!”

I can relate to Joe’s situation, those moments when my first shot didn’t get me nearly as far down the fairway as I hoped.  I’ve felt that way in my spiritual life, too. Sometimes I’m not as far along in my walk with Christ as others expect.  And if I’m honest, sometimes I look at others and think they should be further down the fairway than they are.

Scripture addresses this tension. What should our attitude be when a brother or sister in Christ seems spiritually “behind”, not growing as quickly, still struggling, still learning the basics?

Sometimes the moment calls for loving correction. At other times, the right response is patient forbearance.

In either case, the goal is never to shame or discourage. It is always to build up. Always to strengthen. Always to help someone take one more step down the fairway of faith.

Paul says it plainly: “We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak.” (Romans 15:1–2, NIV). That means supporting, guiding, encouraging, and (when needed) walking beside someone until they can stand stronger.

May we truly encourage one another on our shared journey. None of us reaches the finish alone. And all of us, at one time or another, need the steady help of those walking the course with us.

Prayer: Lord, give us patient hearts and a gracious spirit as we walk beside others. Help us to lift up the weak, encourage the weary, and build one another in love.  May we reflect the patience and mercy you show to us every day. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Alan Smith
Reprinted with permission from Alan Smith’s Thought For the Day