BIBLICAL FATHERHOOD--THE GREAT NEED OF THE WORLD 7z-16) HE HAS A GENERATION MINDSET-- ROLE MODELING LOVE THAT "BEARS ALL THINGS" (1 Corinthians 13:7) continued.

In our home and before our family we are to role model what it means to bear the infirmities of the weak. Romans 15:1 says, "We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves." The word infirmities" in this Scripture means "scruples of conscience" and it is the only time where it is used.

We may invite a guest into our home who, for conscience sake, will not eat certain foods or drink any type of wine, etc. In such cases, because of the love that "bears all things" we should not offend them by disputing with their belief, or even violating their conscience by doing in front of them what would offend them. Even when we do not agree with their opinion, it is better to keep the unity of the Spirit in forbearing love than offend for the sake of food and drink.

Galatians 6:2 says, "Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." It is in our home first that we are to bear one another's burdens. Whatever burdens our wife is bearing, as a husband we must lovingly bear them with her. This means we are to roll up our sleeves and help her when she is over-burdened with the huge task of mothering the children and managing the home or is sick. Perhaps the children are sick or facing some of the many challenges involved in growing up. We must do our part to help our wife with the burden she carries. Having first role modeled this love that bears all things in our home, we then love our neighbors with this burden bearing love as we would have ourselves to be loved. In doing so, we fulfill the law of Christ.

Be encouraged.

Colin Campbell