Too Weak?

Too Weak?

After two months of not being able to put any weight on my broken leg, the time finally came to re-learn to walk. The process began with considerable pain as each small increment of weight was added to the pressure put on that foot. It also involved relearning the motion of taking a step. What is normally done without even thinking, now required great concentration and determined motion. Even though the majority of my weight is still supported with the walker, I have found great benefit of again using my two legs together.

Just being able to put the left foot down and allow minimal weight bearing greatly improves balance. Standing on one foot may be fine for a stork, but it is not how we are created to stand for long periods of time. The strain on the good foot is more than it can bear for very long.

The reintroduction of a regular walking gait is another major benefit to using the two legs and feet in partnership. Hopping is not the proper way to get from place to place. This form of movement may be functional for a time, but is not optimal. Even the strong leg needs the support of the weak leg. Even with this minimal support it can to operate more as it was created to.

In the body of Christ, the same principle is true. Often people may think that because they do not possess the same strength or maturity as a brother or sister in Christ, they have little or nothing to offer. This is not true! However little the strength or offering of one believer is, it is extremely necessary to support the strong. “Two are better than one, because they have a good [more satisfying] reward for their labor.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9 AMP) This verse does not say two strong people are better than one. It simply states that the unity of the two brings strength.
When addressing the topic of spiritual gifts to the Corinthian Church, the Apostle Paul speaks of the human body and it's need for the parts to work together. “But as it is, God has placed and arranged the limbs and organs in the body, each [particular one] of them, just as He wished and saw fit and with the best adaptation.” (1 Corinthians 12:18 AMP) We are each important and must work together, “So that there should be no division or discord or lack of adaptation [of the parts of the body to each other], but the members all alike should have a mutual interest in and care for one another.” (1 Corinthians 12:25 AMP) (See entire chapter 12)
As members of one body we are to look out for each other. “And let us consider and give attentive, continuous care to watching over one another, studying how we may stir up (stimulate and incite) to love and helpful deeds and noble activities.” (Hebrews 10:24 AMP) We are all encouraged to support, strengthen and build each other up. This verse does not only tell the strong ones to look out for the weak, but for all to do our part. We may have different roles but we are to support as best we can.

Whether a young Christian or a believer that has been broken and is now recovering, even the weak lend something to a healthy relationship. Strong and weak alike can, “Like newborn babies you should crave (thirst for, earnestly desire) the pure (unadulterated) spiritual milk, that by it you may be nurtured and grow unto [completed] salvation, since you have [already] tasted the goodness and kindness of the Lord.” (1 Peter 2:2-3 AMP) By learning and growing in the life-giving Word of God, all become stronger and more capable of serving in the Kingdom.

My stronger right leg needed to pick up for what the left could not do. In the beginning that meant hopping and bearing all the weight. As the left leg gained some strength and ability, the right had to pace itself to the needs of the left. The length of stride and amount of weight is determined by the weaker leg’s growing strength. Likewise, a stronger believer must allow the weaker to grow and match its stride. “We who are strong [in our convictions and of robust faith] ought to bear with the failings and the frailties and the tender scruples of the weak; [we ought to help carry the doubts and qualms of others] and not to please ourselves. Let each one of us make it a practice to please (make happy) his neighbor for his good and for his true welfare, to edify him [to strengthen him and build him up spiritually].” (Romans 15:1-2 AMP) The weaker may keep the mature ones continually seeking their steps with others in mind. This can provide a stronger sense of balance in the Word. 

Along the entire process of growth, the majority of the weight is currently placed on the walker. Likewise, we must always lean and rely on the strength and wisdom of the Lord. “Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6 AMP) We walk together, offering the strength and ability that we have, and always lean on Jesus. In this way we will walk strong and straight in the paths of God’s plan for us. 

Are you weak? You still have value to add to your stronger brothers and sisters. Are you strong? Lend your strength to a weaker brother or sister and gradually allow them to grow and take more strength upon themselves. Whatever your role, rely on Jesus for your strength and balance as you serve together.