Bible Reading for July 21 – Galatians 6:1-18

So, how can a Christian sow to the Spirit, living in a way that truly pleases God (v. 8)? How can a Christian truly live a life of love toward others? It may cost you some money. Paul reminds us that we should help support pastors who teach the Word of God (v. 6). And this obligation would also, of course, helping our church planters and missionaries with their work of evangelism.

But expressing love for others sometimes involves more than writing a check – sometimes folks need a call or a visit, a helping hand or a hug. And so, Paul urges us to do good to everyone, especially those who are our brothers and sisters in Christ (v. 10). Truly loving others may thus involve a significant investment of our time and talent as well as our treasure.

It also involves being gracious to those who are caught in sin (v. 1). Just as Jesus commanded us to forgive those who sin against us (Matthew 6:14-15), Paul urges us to be gentle with other sinners, not least because we acknowledge that we are just as susceptible to temptation (v. 2), although perhaps in different ways. But true forgiveness and reconciliation, taking the time and making the effort to help others get back on track may require yet another significant investment of our resources.

But let’s not allow ourselves to be deterred by the effort that true love requires. Instead of growing weary in doing good (v. 9), let’s focus on the great rewards our efforts will produce – the peace and mercy that come not only from a closer relationship with our Christian brothers and sisters, but from God Himself (v. 16).

Galatians 6:1-18 (ESV)

Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.
2 Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.
3 For if anyone thinks he is something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself.
4 But let each one test his own work, and then his reason to boast will be in himself alone and not in his neighbor.
5 For each will have to bear his own load.
6 Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with the one who teaches.
7 Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap.
8 For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.
9 And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.
10 So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.
11 See with what large letters I am writing to you with my own hand.
12 It is those who want to make a good showing in the flesh who would force you to be circumcised, and only in order that they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ.
13 For even those who are circumcised do not themselves keep the law, but they desire to have you circumcised that they may boast in your flesh.
14 But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.
15 For neither circumcision counts for anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation.
16 And as for all who walk by this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God.
17 From now on let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.
18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers. Amen.