Romans 15:1-2 Those of us who are strong and able in the faith need to step in and lend a hand to those who falter, and not just do what is most convenient for us. Strength is for service, not status. Each of us needs to look after the good of the people around us, asking ourselves, "How can I help?" (The Message)
Two words stick out in this verse to me - strong and falter. There are a 25 or so definitions for the word strong, some dealing with physical strength and some with emotional strength. Then the word falter which has only a couple of definitions - to become unsure & hesitant - to lose strength, power or vitality is two of them.
As a Grammie, I want to be a source of both physical and emotional strength for my grandbabies. I want to be in their lives and learn as much as I can and be able to spend one on one time making them feel special and important.
I want them to know I am here for them whenever they need me and if they falter in anything. I want to listen to their fears and questions, pray with and for them and I want to give out hugs for no reason.
I want them to be secure in the fact that I will never leave them and I want them to never be afraid of talking with me or be afraid of what I might say and I want them to know I will try to understand them and just listen and validate their thoughts and feelings.
I really think this is what Jesus wants me to be as a grandmother. But I also believe he wants me to be that way with other people. Not everyone is strong (physically or emotionally) and many of us falter in a lot of areas and we need those strong people to keep us focused and to help keep us going.
Jesus tells the strong ones to step up and help the weak. Lend a hand and ask, "How can I help?"
Nancy
