Leaders must grow in the skill to care for the weak

Leaders lead people, and people go through tough times at some point or another.  During those times the task of the leader is to “strengthen the weak hands, make firm the feeble knees [and] encourage those who are fearful-hearted” (Isaiah 35:3-4)

In this short video Danelle Esterhuizen shares why and how leaders can care for the weak.

Scripture

Galatians 6:1-3, 10

1  Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted. 2  Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. 3  For if anyone thinks himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself… 10  Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.

Observation questions

1. Let’s ask some interrogative questions to understand these instructions well:
2. What does he mean with the phrase “overtaken in any trespass”?
3. Who does he mean to identify with the phrase “you who are spiritual”?
4. What should be the attitude of one’s disposition (or attitude) in assisting those who fell into temptation? (consider verses 1, 2, and 3)
5. What does he mean with the phrase “bear one another’s burdens” in this context?
6. What is “the law of Christ” Paul refers to?
7. Considering the context, rephrase verse 10 in your own words.

Personal reflection

Personal reflections and applications

1. Consider the following scenario: a friend of yours is a young pastor on a medical campus. He tells you that one of the young doctors has had some marital problems for some months, partially because of the long hours during his community service. This young doctor confesses to your pastor-friend that because of the trouble at home and the long hours of work at night he has built up an emotional relationship with one of his female co-workers, and over the weekend it escalated into a sexual affair. Your pastor friend is shocked and angry, because this young doctor is one of his worship leaders – he just wants to chase this doctor out of his church.  The next morning your read Galatians 6:1-10; how will you advise your young pastor-friend to handle this situation?

Prayer

Pray that God will give you compassion, gentleness, patience and wisdom to lead people in the grace which he shows you.