We who are strong should bear with the failings of the weak…and build them up. —Romans 15:1-2
Click here to read today's Scripture: Romans 15:1-6
Running has been a major part of my life since high school, so it's no surprise that I've developed patellofemoral pain syndrome, aka “runner's knee” or “athletic knee.” Thankfully it's a mild case. But even for nonathletes, normal use alone puts tremendous demands on the knees. A BBC News article states that just by walking, the force on our knees is one and a half times our body weight. No wonder that by our mid-thirties, most of us begin to notice aches, stiffness, or creaking sounds in the knees.
The health of our knee joints is crucial to our overall mobility and quality of life, and nowadays there's no shortage of advice on preventing and treating knee pain and injury. These range from simple home remedies, such as ice packs, to drastic measures, including knee replacement surgery. What seems most promising, however, are exercises that strengthen the muscles surrounding the knees. When the hamstrings, gluteal muscles, quadriceps, and calf muscles are strong, they support the knee with stability and shock absorption that enable it to function well.
The body of Christ is called to play a similar role. Paul says that those who are strong in the faith should “bear with the failings of the weak…and build them up” (Romans 15:1-2). And Ecclesiastes 4:12 says, “Though one may be overpowered…a chord of three strands is not quickly broken.”
As Christians, it is crucial that we surround ourselves with a strong support system. We do so by intentionally seeking out friends, mentors, and faith communities who love the Lord with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30) and actively encourage us to do the same.
Reflect: Are you surrounded by strong Christian “muscles”? What steps can you take to increase the strength of your faith community?
Prayer Starter:
Lord, thank You for the Christian community You've placed me in. Strengthen each of us in Your love so we can support and strengthen one another.
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