“Therefore strengthen the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees, 13 and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be dislocated, but rather be healed” (Hebrews 12:12-13).
The text mirrors Isaiah 35:3 and Proverbs 4:26. The idea is one of discouragement and weakness through exhaustion. The proper response to persecution and distress is to exult in the growth it brings — “the peaceable fruit of righteousness” (vs. 11). But, as the writer states, “no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful…” (vs. 11).
We see another in a weakened state, and our love demands a response. It is possible for me to give my brother in Christ encouragement. I can help him to rest, and regroup, thereby strengthening him. I can, and must help! “Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin” (James 4:17).
Those who are handicapped (lame) have many challenges. We reserve parking spaces for them near entrances. We build gentle ramps with rails to assist them from one level to another. We supply crutches, splints, braces, walkers and wheel chairs to enable them opportunity where otherwise they would be shut out.
It is so important to supply the spiritually exhausted the same benefits. We have a responsibility to help them, to make their paths as unencumbered as possible to that they will not falter. We need to love. We need to help.
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