Some bubbles are large and move quickly, almost effortlessly. Others are small and drift around on their way upward at a little slower rate. Some rise in a straight line, while others slide along the glass. And every now and then, a bubble gets caught on a plant or decoration, pausing for a time before finally continuing upward.
When you think about it, that’s a lot like the Christian life.
All believers are moving toward Christ, but not at the same pace or in the same way. Some Christians appear strong, steady, and confident. Others struggle. Some hesitate. A few get “stuck” along the way. And that raises an important question: What should strong Christians do with the weaknesses of others?
The Bible’s answer is both clear and challenging: help them rise.
In Romans 15:1, Paul writes, “We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves.” That word “bear” means more than simply putting up with someone. It means to support them, to carry them, to come alongside them. Spiritual strength is not given to us so we can stand above others—it is given so we can lift them up.
That simple shift in our perspective changes how we see people. Instead of becoming frustrated with someone who is slower to grow, we become more patient. Instead of criticizing at every turn, we look for ways to help them navigate. Why? Well, one reason is that we remember that we’ve had moments where we struggled, drifted, or got stuck ourselves.
But maintaining strength also requires care and attention. In 1 Corinthians 8:9, Paul warns, “Be careful, however, that the exercise of your rights does not become a stumbling block to the weak.” Sometimes those who are less mature in the faith are more easily influenced. A careless attitude, a harsh word, or even the unwise use of our freedom can discourage them or shake their confidence. What we do can cause them to stumble!
That’s why love must guide knowledge. It’s not just about what we have the right to do—it’s about what is helpful for others.
Because of this, strong Christians are intentional in building others up around them. Romans 14:19 says, “Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” When we edify each other, it means we aim to build each other up. Every interaction we have is an opportunity to strengthen someone else’s faith. A kind word, a patient answer, or simple encouragement can make a lasting difference in someone who feels uncertain or weak.
And when we see someone’s weakness showing itself in sin, our response is still shaped by love. Galatians 6:1 teaches, “Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.” Notice the emphasis here is on our having gentleness and humility. Restoration is not about proving a point—it’s about helping someone get back on their feet. The act of restoring others remembers that none of us are beyond stumbling.
Above all, as in everything, we look to Jesus. As Romans 15:3 reminds us, “For even Christ did not please himself…” Even though He had all authority, He chose compassion. He was patient with those who were slow to understand and gentle with those who had fallen. He did not crush weakness—He provided strength to rise up.
So when we see others struggling in their faith, think back on what a simple aquarium teaches us: Every bubble is rising—but not every bubble rises the same way. Some are fast, some are slow, and some need a little time before they move again.
Strong Christians don’t rush ahead and forget the others around them. They don’t criticize or create obstacles in their wake. They help. They encourage. They walk alongside.
Because in God’s design, true strength is not measured by how quickly we rise—but by how faithfully we help others rise with us.
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