Is someone in your world struggling with sin or the consequences of their sinful choices? We are reminded that our response should be to help shoulder the load, and our motivation is to see them restored. Too often in our “to each his own” culture, our response is to ignore it, excuse it, or judge the person because of it. Yet by the example of Jesus, and throughout Scripture, we are taught to be merciful to those struggling in sin (see Luke 6:36) while also supplying the comfort, counsel, and help the circumstance may require. This command also comes with a warning: be gentle and be careful. Guard against any pride or self-righteousness seeping in.

How It Works

Helping to restore someone does not require a counseling degree or prior experience with the subject matter. What it does call for is a willing heart that is sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit. Just as a wheelbarrow depends on its operator for what it carries, where it goes, and when it empties, so we should depend on God’s Spirit within for the wisdom, discernment, and timing of our help to others. He is more than able to guide us to know how we can best help.

Bottom Line

Be a wheelbarrow. Help carry the burdens of others with God as your operator, directing where, when, and how you help.