Galatians 6:9-10 (CSB) - "Let us not get tired of doing good, for we will reap at the proper time if we don’t give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us work for the good of all, especially for those who belong to the household of faith."
Paul is writing his final instructions to the Galatian believers, reminding them of three laws. First, there is the Law of Sharing and Caring (6:1-5). Paul calls it the Law of Christ. Jesus said that we are to obey His commandments in John 14 and 15. I would say this is one that He meant for us to keep. Too often we as the church “shoot our wounded.”
Paul goes on to show the nature of this Law (6:1-5). Spiritual believers are to gently restore fallen believers back to fellowship. The word trespass means one who has a lapse or deviation from truth and uprightness – a sin, a misdeed The word restore in the Greek means to make perfect, make one what they ought to be. It is in the present imperative tense. And this is to be in a spirit of gentleness – mildly and meekly. Nowhere are we justified in God’s Word to be overbearing or obnoxious in helping others. Why – because we open ourselves to Satan to be tempted in that very area! We become proud of what we are not (v.3). We are what we are spiritually only by Christ.
We are told to take upon ourselves the weights of others. We are not to place more weight upon the person. But, what about verse 5? Verse 2 is in the present imperative – we ARE to do this. Verse 5 is in the future indicative – it will happen in the future. When we help others to shoulder their burden, they will become capable of doing it themselves.
So, the Law of Christ is that we shoulder the burden of others and help them become what they ought to be.The second Paul talks about the Law of Receiving and Giving (6:6). Those who are taught the Word of God should fellowship with them who has taught them. We should encourage and share with those who have taught us. We should share with one another. We should enter into fellowship, make one's self a sharer or partner with each other. We should receive instruction and be willing to fellowship with the one who instructs. In other words – be generous and do good to those who take time to instruct.
Finally, Paul instructs about the Law of Sowing and Reaping (6:7-10). Paul tells them not to be led astray - God is not mocked – this is a simple statement of fact in the Greek. Interesting way of putting this in the Greek - "whatever a man sows" – tense is that it may or may not happen, "that he will also reap" – tense is that it will definitely happen.
He is stressing that those who sow only sinful desires will reap everlasting death (6:8a). What is good will reap a never ceasing life (6:8b). So, never quit – no matter what (6:9). So, whenever we can – do good, however we can – do good. (6:10).
Prayer: Father, may I follow these laws of my Savior. As a bondslave, I want to do only what my Master desires. Guide my steps in all ways. Amen.
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