Scripture to Read: Romans 15:1
When we ended last week in Romans 14, God was making sure we understood that it was better not to do something so that a weaker believer would not be caused to stumble. So, we must always consider those around us to ensure we are not a stumbling block to them. With that in mind, God continued to use Paul, as he wrote Romans 15:1, to help all mature believers in Christ know that we must “bear the weaknesses of those without strength and not just please ourselves.” To “bear the weaknesses” of others means we choose to be considerate and patient with those who are weaker in their faith and convictions. Every mature believer was once an immature believer. All of us who have grown in our walk with our Lord remember when we first started as new believers. We were innocent and even ignorant of God’s Truth and who we had become in Christ. But as we have grown and matured, we have learned so much about the fullness of the righteousness, forgiveness, grace, mercy, and peace that we have because of our Lord Jesus Christ. We have become strong in our faith in Christ and His Word, and we walk in the fullness of His Truth because of all He’s taught us over the years. But we must guard against arrogance as if we have matured on our own. We must willingly come alongside new believers and disciple them so they grow up in Christ and His Truth. This is how we “bear the weaknesses of those without strength” and fulfill our Father’s will.
Challenge & Application
· Why is it important to help bear the weaknesses of new believers and immature Christians?
· How has God used you in the life of a new believer to help bear their weakness and help them grow?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!