The Members Of The Body That Are Weaker Are Necessary

[Bible Speaks]

22 "On the contrary, the members of the body that seem to be weaker are necessary." (1Cor 12:22)

We are living in a competitive world where strength and youth are frequently exalted. Many do whatever it takes to get their way, often trampling on the feelings of those who are weaker. 

We do not condone such behavior, yet we may unconsciously develop a negative view of those who regularly need assistance, even in the congregation. But we can develop a more balanced view, one like God’s.

We can gain insight into the way Jehovah views human weakness from an illustration recorded in Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians. In chapter 12, Paul reminds us that even the least attractive or the weakest part of the human body has a function. (Read 1 Corinthians 12:12, 18, 21-23.) 

Findings in the study of anatomy show that body parts once considered useless actually do perform essential functions.* For example, some have questioned the usefulness of the little toe; however, it is now recognized to have an impact on the balance of the whole body.

We will likely be more empathetic if we remember that some of our dear brothers and sisters have been weakened by adverse circumstances—suffering from poor health, living in a divided household, or coping with depression.

We might find ourselves in a similar situation one day. Before entering the Promised Land, the Israelites, who had been poor and weak in the land of Egypt, were reminded that they should not “harden [their] heart” toward their afflicted brothers. Jehovah expected them to consider the poor as being worthy of help.—Deut. 15:7, 11; Lev. 25:35-38.

What should be our priority when helping those who face hardships? Illustrate.

Rather than being judgmental or suspicious, we should provide spiritual comfort to those facing undesirable circumstances. (Job 33:6, 7;Matt. 7:1) 

Similarly, if a fellow believer has been weakened by personal problems, our priority should be to provide spiritual assistance.—Read 1 Thessalonians 5:14.

If we pause to reflect on our brothers’ circumstances, we may see their seeming frailty in a different light. Think of sisters who have been enduring family opposition for years. Some may be of humble appearance and look fragile, yet do they not demonstrate outstanding faith and inner strength? 

When you see a single mother regularly coming to meetings with her child or children, are you not impressed by her faith and determination? And what of teenagers who stick to the truth despite the bad influences in school? In all modesty, we recognize that such ones, who may seem to be weaker, may be as “rich in faith” as those among us who have more favorable circumstances.—Jas. 2:5.

http://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2014447?q=1+cor+12%3A22&p=par

[Arauna]

What an encouraging commentary!.....  Yes there are some of the elderly who, due to health problems, may become inactive if they do not receive help...... we must be there to help and be sure that Jehovah will give extra Holy Spirit when we do this.