"Receive one who is weak in the faith,
but not to disputes over doubtful things."
Romans 14:1
Two women were prayer partners. They met together to pray about their problems. One lady said, "You probably need another prayer partner. My faith is so weak that I often have a struggle in my prayers." Her friend responded, "You are the prayer partner I want, because you are so honest about your faith. We all have times when our faith seems so weak." So it is with the faith of all believers. There are times when our faith seems strong, and other times when our faith is weaker.
The apostle Paul was concerned about those who were weak in faith. He recognized that being in church disputes would be harmful to those who had weak faith. The people we are around often have an effect on our faith. "One may edify another" (Romans 14:19). To edify another is to strengthen or build up that person in faith. Also, one may become a "stumbling block" to another in the faith (Romans 14:13). We influence one another in the faith.
A network of people strong in faith can make a difference in our own faith. Church is designed by God to be a fellowship of faith, whereby we encourage one another in the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ. The apostle Paul warns us not to "do anything by which your brother stumbles or is offended or is made weak" (Romans 14:21).
Resolve to encourage others in the faith. Express appreciation to those who have encouraged you. Seek the fellowship of others who are strong in faith, realizing that anyone may become weak in faith.
Resolve to encourage others in the faith. Express appreciation to those who have encouraged you. Seek the fellowship of others who are strong in faith, realizing that anyone may become weak in faith.
Father, strengthen our faith and use us to strengthen others.
