Some Good Advice for Christian Living

INTRO: We have studied the sins of the flesh, and the fruit of the Spirit. We realize that we need to walk in the Spirit. Now, in practical everyday terms, how can we do that? In these verses Paul gives us a dose of plain practical wisdom. He tells us to do five things:

I. Help your more sinful brethren (vs. 1).
A. Our tendency is to condemn and clobber our sinful brethren.
B. This is work for those who are more spiritual.
C. We need to watch ourselves while we help others.

II. Bear one another's burdens (vs. 2).
A. This fulfills the "law of Christ," which is to love one another.
B. Are we even aware of the troubles of those sitting in the pew with us?
C. But note: You can't bear everyone's burdens yourself. Put a limit on this.

III. Don't be conceited (vss. 3-4).
A. Pride is the most common sin of all.
B. We ought not to be comparing ourselves to others, but testing ourselves.

IV. Carry your own load (vs. 5).
A. Be grateful when others help you with your troubles.
B. But, be responsible and pull your own weight.
C. Take care of your parents, and your children, and your spouse.
D. There are some troubles that only you and Jesus can bear.

V. Care for your teachers in the Faith (vs. 6).
A. God's Old Testament people are famous for being bad toward the prophets
and priests. They killed many of the prophets. They were slack in giving
the tithe.
B. Christians should be sure that their pastors and missionaries are adequately
cared for financially, and in other respects, too.
C. Let your elders, deacons, Sunday School teachers know that you appreciate
what they have done for you.

CONCL: Avoid the sins of the flesh. Walk in the Spirit. Then put your Faith to practical use: Love one another, bear one another's burdens. Flee from pride. Be responsible. Care for those who have taught you the Faith. Amen.