Bear (endure, carry) one another’s burdens and troublesome moral faults, and in this way fulfill and observe perfectly the law of Christ (the Messiah) and complete what is lacking [in your obedience to it].
We are not to be impatient with other people when they have a troublesome moral fault, but bear with them, pray for them, and encourage them. Tell them to repent, receive God’s forgiveness, and not to feel guilty, because we all have weaknesses, and we all need compassion and people who will be patient with us.
If we are going to please God, then we will have to put up with some things people do that irritate us—annoying little habits. Perhaps they talk too much, they don’t return your things when they borrow them until you ask for them back, they are chronically late, they are emotionally needy or clingy, or they have other habits or tendencies that bother you. One of the best ways to bear with people is to remember that we also have annoying habits, but we don’t usually see ours. One reason we don’t see our faults is because we are too busy judging others.
Don’t focus only on the shortcomings of other people; focus on their strong points. The person who is always late may also be very generous to you. The person who talks too much may be the first one to offer to help when you have a need. Always look for the good in people, and you won’t notice the irritating things as much.
Prayer of the Day: Lord, please help me see others through Your eyes. Teach me to focus on their strengths, love them with grace, and be patient—just as You are patient with me.
