by leaps and bounds

Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ (Galatians 6:2).

                  Attending a men’s prayer breakfast this morning, it really struck me how much believers need one another. As prayer requests were given – the theme was the same – these men have real burdens they are carrying. Unsaved loved ones, sickness in families and job concerns were expressed in some way by each man – pastor and laymen alike.

                  So many times we find ourselves looking at some Christians as though they have it all together. Well, the pastor has a family. The board member has a job. No matter who we look at – past the smiles and “I am fine” – everything is not sunshine and roses.

                  The Apostle Paul wrote: Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. So, what law is he speaking about? This law is found in John 13:34-35.

                  “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

                  In this impersonal world of texting, tweeting and social isolation, believers cannot afford to be impersonal. We are called to care about each other. In fact, we are to place each other ahead of ourselves. Notice what Scripture says about this:

                  Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another (Romans 12:10).

                  Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself (Philippians 2:3)

                  So – each time we gather – let us see each other through the lens of Scripture. We are God’s people. We all have burdens. We all need all the prayer and encouragement we can receive. WE NEED EACH OTHER!

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Dave Snyder is an Ordained Bishop with the Church of God – Cleveland, Tennessee. Before entering the ministry on a full-time basis, he was a school teacher. He also coached middle school basketball for eight years.

Dave and his wife, Sara, have two children  — Craig and Karen. They also have one ten year old granddaughter  — Breanna. 

Dave and Sara pastored in West Virginia for thirty-six years. Sara is now retired from the banking industry, and Dave is retired from pastoring. However, Dave currently serves as prison Chaplain for the West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation. 

Writing essays, articles, and devotionals is a real passion for Dave. He also enjoys playing musical instruments and singing.