“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.“

Galatians 6:2 

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September 4, 2025

I remember long ago sharing some sinful lack in my life with a few friends. I don’t recall if it was prayerlessness or impatience with my kids or one of a dozen other things, but I remember their responses. In their eagerness to be empathetic and non-condemning, they normalized the behavior and did not offer to pray or to hold me accountable going forward. While their intentions were good, I remember feeling “not heard” and not allowed to call my sin what it was: sin. 

Is letting each other off the hook a biblical response? What is our responsibility when we are on the other side of the “confess to one another” relationship?  

First, be ready to listen, really listen. And of course we must keep what is shared in confidence. But as we respond, we often tend towards one extreme or another: making too little or too much of the sin. 

When someone confesses a sin that seems minor, we may want to downplay it and say “everyone does that, no big deal.” Friends, God may be pressing on a tender spot in your friend’s heart, purposefully convicting them; let’s not hinder what the Spirit is doing! We can have empathy and share our own struggles yet still take their discomfort with their sin seriously.  

Conversely, we need to extend grace, not express shock, if their sin sounds more serious. There is no sin that is not covered by Jesus’ sacrifice! Encourage them as you remind them of their new identity in Christ, and that they are washed clean. 

In any case, pray over them. Pray that they not fall into temptation, and for them to rest in God’s grace. Ask if they would like you to follow up later to see how they are doing in this area. 

Bearing one another’s burdens can be messy and uncomfortable. But we each need faithful believers alongside us in this race. What a privilege to be entrusted with this element of operating in “one another” love!   

Questions for Reflection and Discussion: 

  • Would your close friends say you are approachable for “confessing to one another?”  
  • Will you ask God to help you improve in this area?  

Church Reading Plan: 1 Samuel 28; 1 Corinthians 9