“See with what large letters I have written to you with my own hand!” (Galatians 6:11, NKJV)
Sometimes it seems like letter writing has become a lost art form. In this electronic age of email, text messaging, Twitter, Facetime, video chats, etc., brevity and speed are the order of the day. Impulsive bursts of blather often pass as substantive dialogue. Taking time to think out and write a letter takes forethought, dedicated time, and focused attention. These are among the traits we observe in Paul’s epistle to the churches of Galatia. Perhaps poor eyesight contributed to the size of his script (Gal. 6:13-15). His “large letters” suggest the purposeful attention with which he wrote. Paul personally wrote this message, determined to communicate his concern over the spiritual dangers they faced. With careful precision, he addressed them with God’s truth to reprimand departures from the gospel, to protect them against perversions of the gospel, and to solidify their faith (Gal. 1:6-12; 3:1-9, 26-29; 6:12-15). At times Paul would dictate his epistles (Rom. 16:22). His attention to writing this communique helped impress upon the Galatians his commitment to their faith (Gal. 4:8-12, 16-20). When someone takes the time to write to us about our spiritual welfare, it shows their care for us. Like Paul’s letter to the Galatians, it may be a message that challenges us to greater faith and faithfulness. Let us respect those who love us enough to take the time to write words of reproof, rebuke, and exhortation for our good (2 Tim. 4:2). More than that, may we accept and follow the inspired truth that comes from the mind of God (2 Tim. 3:16-17; 1 Cor. 14:37).
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