The Grands Letter

Dear Grands,

Galatians 6:1-8, “Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted.

2 Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ.

3 For if anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself.

4 But each one must examine his own work, and then he will have reason for boasting in regard to himself alone, and not in regard to another.

5 For each one will bear his own load.

6 The one who is taught the word is to share all good things with the one who teaches him.

7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap.

8 For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.”

When we were small, our parents instructed us in a variety of things. “Yes,” was always a welcome word; “no” was not. We are all born with the desire to do what we want whether or not it complies with the will of our parents or guardians. Paul, however, was writing to adults when he gave instruction regarding how we are to deal with those who are doing wrongfully. He notes that it is equally wrong for one to overlook his own life as he attempts to correct things in the life of another.

How real that is in the life of every generation! The attitude arises from the thought that one is always right, and the other is always wrong. It happens on the playing field; it happens in the home. It even happens in the confines of the church! Paul argues that such criticism is “self-deceptive.” Each person is responsible for his own actions and attitudes, so we must all be careful!

We are to be helpful, not merely critical. Criticism can be helpful, however, provided it is offered in a loving way. Teachers are required to be critical; otherwise, students would never learn to discern right from wrong. Scripture is often critical; but it is critical for our good. Thus, we ought to be certain that our criticism of others is for their good. If it is intended that way, it will be offered in a soft and pleasant manner that is always pleasing to the LORD!

Heartily in Christ,

Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D.

United States of America

We will never know that Christ is all we need,

Until He becomes all that we have. – Corrie ten Boom