I Cor. 12:26 If one part suffers, all the parts suffer with it,
and if one part is honored, all the parts are glad. NLT
The question that
comes to my mind as I think about this verse is, “Do we suffer with those
amongst us who suffer?” It is so easy to get so caught up in our own lives that
we neglect those who really need someone to come alongside of them and care as
they go through their sufferings. Regardless whether the suffering is physical,
financial, emotional, mental, or spiritual, it helps to know someone really
cares. Many of us mask our sufferings. We pretend all is well when it really
isn’t. We keep things to ourselves that should never be kept. How can we expect
the comfort that comes from Christ when we shut others out?
People are the means
by which the Lord often addresses our needs. He hears and answers our prayers
through the help others can give. It makes no sense at all to suffer alone when
the Lord provides others in the body to help us.
Granted, there is
always the risk that someone will not act in a godly way towards us. There is
the possibility that some who claim to be in need really aren’t in need. There
are some who will take advantage of others and bleed them dry under false
pretenses. However, can we justify not helping one another out in times of need
simply because of the behavior of some? It would rob the body of the joy of
living out the Gospel. We need to be wise and discerning, but not cold-hearted.
Look around you. Is
there anyone in the church whom you know is suffering? Do you care enough about
them to suffer with them? What about you? Are you suffering? Don’t deny others
the opportunity to show their love for you by keeping silent. We are in this
together. No part of the body should ever suffer alone.
Let others into your
suffering world and lovingly enter the sufferings of others; you will be glad
you did.
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