In Galatians 6:2 Paul wrote: “Bear ye one another’s burdens.”

But then, three verses later, he preached: “For every man shall bear his own burden.” Galatians 6:5, our Bible Text for today.

Is this a contradiction?

No!

In the earlier verse the noun for “burdens” is “baros,” meaning a very, very heavy load! One too much for a man to carry by himself! (Then, let’s go HELP him.)

Whereas in today’s Verse the word for “burden” is “phortion,” just meaning a “load” that is manageable. Not requiring extra assistance!

Wow!

Problem solved!

Now … here is a case where (to my thinking anyway) grammar and vocabulary greatly aid proper Biblical interpretation!

We help others, when need be.

Otherwise we mind our own business … and live for Jesus, bearing the little “vicissitudes” (burdens) of life. (The word means the little “turns” life takes from time to time, often emphasizing the “unpleasant turns” we all face.)

Wow!

What a truth!

Part of Christian maturity is developing “hupomone,” the Christian grace of endurance, or patience. The word literally means “staying under a load,” and doing so without complaining or doubting or questioning Almighty God!

— Dr. Mike Bagwell

Of course Peter did give the Christian additional hope with this verse, this possibility, this challenge: “Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you.” 1 Peter 5:7

Amen!