Not Alone in this Universe

One of the biggest deceptions followers of Jesus fall into is the lie that we are the only one going through trials at a certain time. I know this from experience. I have both believed it, and I have seen it in the lives of others. For me, the most deceiving deception I lived in was that I was the only person who struggled with sin. I was the only one who lived trapped in a world of lust and idolatry. I was the only one who was addicted to porn. Not until I confessed and opened up did I realize I am not the only one. There are LOTS of others who share the same struggle. I learned there are men who are living on the other side of this addiction who cared deeply about me and desired to walk through this with me. That did not happen though until I opened up and began to be real with those around me. I have also found that when I am open about my own struggles, people come up to me and thank me for being honest and share they are also struggling with similar issues. It does a great deal of help sharing struggles with others.

What stood out to me: Verse 2 says, "Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ."

Why did this stand out to me: This stood out to me because Paul is encouraging the Galatian Church to be open and honest with each other. Paul knows this life cannot be lived alone and we need each other for support and care.

How this applies in my life: I meet every week or every other week with an older man from my church. He challenges me in ways others cannot. He knows my thoughts and my present struggles. He also desires to live life with me. Sometimes it is really hard to admit to him my thoughts and what I am going through, but he lovingly corrects me when I need to be corrected, and he encourages me when I need to be encouraged. I am blessed to have this type of relationship in my life!

It is hard to believe that I am almost done with Galatians! If you are reading with me, finish reading chapter 6 for tomorrow.

Any suggestions on where we read next? I am thinking Ephesians...

In His service,CrazyPete