Purpose Expressed • Galatians 6:1-10
By Bobby McKay
If you own a toolbox, what would you say is the most critical piece in your assortment? The hammer must be considered because it can be used to build and tear down. The screwdriver’s main job is to bring things together. You could also make a case for the tape measure. Without it, many projects would not be completed correctly. For me, it is my cell phone. I do not have a “fix-it” bone in my body. I have failed to install something as simple as light bulbs correctly. However, the cell phone is my most prized possession because it enables me to call the plumber, electrician, or whomever else I need. The cell phone has never let me down and gets things done.
Now that I have admitted one of my shortcomings, can we be transparent and share one possible inadequacy found in most churches? The issue is that of serving others. We live in a world that thrives on instant gratification and self-centeredness; it can be tempting for even the local church to lose sight of serving others. The church is the most important “tool” in the community. The church is home to many meaningful events and worship services, but it also has a responsibility to love and help those around its buildings. Paul reminded the Galatians of their great privilege to be used by God to help carry the burdens of others.
Galatians 6:1-5
As Christians, we are beautifully like Christ when helping others in need. The salvation Christ gives us has a purpose in mind. Our activity following our conversion is part of our testimony to the world of the power of the redeeming work of Jesus. This Scripture teaches the importance of being gentle towards others. When someone is struggling under a heavy burden, they may not need to hear a sermon but instead a sender of hope. Serving others and offering help go hand in hand with one another. Each of us has been weighed down with the burdens of life at various times. In those times, we prayed for the slightest measure of help from someone else. As Christians, we can be the answer to someone else’s prayers.
Galatians 6:6-8
Our motivation to serve others is never to be recognized, but God, in His love, will bless us accordingly. The agricultural principle of sowing and reaping is prominent in the teachings of Scripture and even Christ. As believers, we do not ascribe to the belief of karma, but consequences are universal for everyone. Our good works do not save us, but if we are saved, we will be compelled to do good works for the glory of God and the betterment of others.
Galatians 6:9-10
One keyword in these two verses is “opportunity.” Each day, God puts an unlimited number of ways in our path so that we can serve others. We may be too busy, distracted, or indifferent to our surroundings, but it does not change the fact that the opportunities to show Christ to others are all around us. We must seize those moments. It could be something as small as helping someone reach for an item on the grocery store’s shelf or helping change a tire or a million things. Be willing and able to help when the time presents itself. I pray if I can help at least one person each day, I will do so, and if I cannot, I will pull out my phone and find someone who can. Answer the call to serve others.
McKay is pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church, Morton.
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