Not Alone
There is a common oxymoron inside churches today that we need to be the “perfect” Christians. Ones who never have struggles and have their act entirely together. If we ignore the fact that there has only ever been one Person who has been perfect, Jesus Christ, then I’m sure based on our outside appearances many may look like the “perfect” Christian mold. However, trying to appear this way is not only exhausting but it is a idea that is pushed on us from society.
You see, throughout the Bible we see examples of individuals leaning on each other. Look at any one of Paul’s letters and you will see him continually ask for prayers for strength in body and spirit. One such example can be found in 2 Corinthians 1:8-11
“For we do not want you to be unaware, brothers, of the affliction we experienced in Asia. For we were so utterly burdened beyond our strength that we despaired of life itself. 9 Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead. 10 He delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will deliver us again. 11 You also must help us by prayer, so that many will give thanks on our behalf for the blessing granted us through the prayers of many.”
Paul and Timothy are writing the the church in Corinth another letter to encourage their faith. But in doing so, these two men are not painting the picture that everything is roses where they are. In fact, they were so burdened that they were unable to find joy in life itself. Paul was traveling through Macedonia during this time and while his troubles are not specifically mentioned, it is clear that they were significant and Paul wished the church to know that they were struggling.
This is a fact that needs to be seen more in the church today. We need to be able to come to our brothers and sisters in Christ when we are struggling. We are not meant to walk the Christian life alone, “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” Hebrews 10:24-25. We need to share with others our struggles so that we can not only be encouraged to stay the course but so that we can allow others to grow in their faith by assisting other believers.
This is what Paul and Timothy are describing in second Corinthians, but it does not end with sharing with others. When they became so distressed with their situation, Paul and Timothy shared their struggles with brothers and sisters in Christ but they also leaned on God Himself. They remembered that God delivered them from the other challenges they faced and would help them with their current situation as well. Today we can apply this by realizing that when we share our struggles and others can see how God has delivered us from them, we encourage others during their own struggles. Seeing how active our God truly is, allows for believers young and old to join together in prayer for those who are struggling.
So today if you are facing a situation that is leaving you with a lack of joy, remember to lean on the Father who cares for you. But also share the situation with others so you may join in prayer and see how God will work in you life.
Seek the truth and encourage one another,
Alex