Galatians 6:1-5 (Jan Cosby)

Sunday morning something Jim said made me suddenly realize that the phrase in verse 1 “caught in a sin” could be interpreted in 2 different ways. First, it could mean being caught by someone else doing something you shouldn’t. It could also mean ‘caught’ as in a trap – doing something you know is wrong, but feeling like you just can’t stop in your own power. In that second case, the sin is most likely hidden from others and only becomes known when the believer goes to another and asks for help. This is when spiritual humility (the opposite of spiritual pride) becomes so important. Only when I acknowledge my own weakness and dependency on God am I able to help someone else who is struggling, trying to be strong in their own strength instead of relying on the power of the Holy Spirit.

Thus, the warning in verse 3 – when I am doing well spiritually, I must not get a puffed-up opinion of myself, thinking that I am somehow accomplishing everything in my own power. On my own I can do nothing (John 15:5), but with God I can do anything (Phil 4:13).

Lord, help me to rely completely on the guidance and strength of your Holy Spirit in order that I might be better able to help others to find the strength they need.