I’ve been reminded recently how important it is to have others around. That’s not so easy for some of us. After all, we are Americans. We tend to be independent. We can manage. It is clear though that we are not to operate individually as a part of the body of Christ. Paul explains in his letter to the Galatians: 

Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. – Galatians 6:2

In order to love others, we are to bear their burdens. Paul’s expectation is in the context of correcting sinful behavior. Because each of us is flawed and sinful, we need each other. We need people to lovingly correct us. We need people to come alongside us and teach us. We need others to care for us. We cannot afford to walk this Christian life alone. 

If you are trying to walk with Jesus alone, let me encourage you. Don’t. Find a group, like a Sunday School class where you can belong. Find a friend or a group of friends who you can get to know and can share yourself with. Search out an accountability partner or partners. I can say with utmost honesty that other Christians who have born my burdens by challenging me, encouraging me, or helping me have shaped me spiritually. 

I need others. You need others. Will you bear someone else’s burden?