Faithful in Hope, Steady in Love

Bearing with One Another

Scripture Reading : Romans 15:1-13

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace 

as you trust in him.” 

Romans 15:13

Discipleship calls us into a shared life where patience and encouragement shape our relationships. Paul writes, “We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves” (Romans 15:1). Following Christ means learning to lay aside selfish preferences so that others may be built up. Christ Himself “did not please Himself” (v.3), but bore our burdens in love. When we choose understanding over irritation and compassion over criticism, we reflect His heart and strengthen one another in faith.

We see this spirit lived out in people like William Carey and Eugene Peterson. Carey labored in India for many years without seeing visible fruit, enduring illness, loss, and discouragement, yet he remained faithful because his hope rested in God’s promises. Eugene Peterson, in a very different setting, spent decades pastoring a small congregation, choosing patient presence over public success. He believed that encouragement grows through listening, prayer, and steady faithfulness. Though their callings were different, both trusted that God works quietly through endurance shaped by Scripture.

Paul reminds us that “everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope” (Romans 15:4). As we remain rooted in God’s Word, His Spirit fills us with joy and peace, enabling us to “overflow with hope” (v.13). When we bear with one another in love, we become living witnesses to Christ’s grace. Our patience, kindness, and prayers become instruments through which God strengthens His people.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, 

Thank You for welcoming us into Your family through Jesus and filling us with hope that never fails. Teach us to be patient with one another, to listen with compassion, and to serve without seeking our own comfort. When we feel tired or discouraged, renew our strength through Your Word and Spirit. Fill our hearts with Your joy and peace, so that our lives may overflow with encouragement and love. Help us build one another up in faith and reflect Christ in all we do. 

In Jesus’ name, Amen.