Bridges of Love

I Thessalonians 5:14 - "We urge you, brethren, admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone."

God will always require us to do more building up than tearing down in those He has put in our lives. As fathers, mothers, grandparents, friends, etc., we have a moral obligation to build bridges first and then, when necessary, provide correction. God never intended for us to create weak bridges but instead spans that will hold up to the sometimes rebuke we must offer. Remember, it is risky business to attempt to drive a 2-ton truck over a 1-ton capacity bridge. Similarly, we must ensure we have built trust with those God has entrusted to us.

If we have successfully encouraged, helped, and been patient with all, then we will be licensed to drive the proverbial truck of admonishment. Our license is often revoked when we do not show love and patience first. May we all do much for building up in love, so that our occasional tearing down in love will be received with grace.