While some people may have gaping holes in their lives in need of repair, others have some snags or weak spots that need to be reinforced before they turn into holes. Let’s face it, we all can get a bit frayed from the wear and tear of life.
Think of mending fishing nets. (It’s the same word used for equipping, a role Bible teachers have been given.)
Good fishermen will reinforce the weak spots in their nets rather than let the weight of the fish tear it open and they lose their catch.
Reinforcing Can Happen in the Equipping Process
Similarly diligent teachers won’t wait for students’ lives to break apart before getting involved. They will find ways to help these students early on to find the needed strength in the Lord (Phil. 4:13) so “they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint” (Isa. 40:31).
Obviously teachers must know what needs to be reinforced. Where are students’ lives rubbing thin? Bible teachers who want to take their role as an equipper seriously must take time to learn about their students’ lives — not just the good but also the bad, the hardships, trials, and stresses they face.
You’ll find some ideas of possible means of reinforcing in the Bible Teacher’s Role Download which also looks at other aspects of being an equipper as well as seven other roles.