2 Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
7 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked.
People reap what they sow.
8 Those who sow to please their sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; those who sow to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.
9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.
It just seems like the burden gets heavier and heavier. Especially as more and more people sow to please their sinful nature. So if I continue on in doing good to all people - even those who reap destruction...well what does it look like to keep carrying their burdens?
To paraphrase Shane Claiborne - whenever anyone asks for help, we are obligated to help them; but we are not obligated to help them exactly according to their request.
When I see friends, fellow believers, neighbors sow to please their sinful nature, and THEN they ask me what to do to reduce the pain...well what does it look like to carry that burden? I really, really, really want to do good to all people, especially to the family of believers. Whether it is my role as a pastor or as a Christian man, it seems like the promised harvest is long in coming. I don't want to give up, but it is hard to not grow weary. I suppose the key is: as we have opportunity. I don't want to make that my excuse clause, but on the other hand I also have responsibilities to my immediate friends and family. But...my goal is not to do good according to what I think I am capable, but to sow to please the Spirit.
Help, Spirit.
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