Jesus looked beyond the letter of the law

He saw the spirit behind it and the need for mercy and compassion.
{ Compare Matthew 23:23 }

Jesus noted the sickly woman's desperate circumstances and took into consideration that she was motivated by faith.
He thereby set a good example for Christian men , particularly overseers.

If a Christian sister is faceing personal problems or an especially difficult or trailsome situation,
elders should try to look beyond the immediate words or actions and take into consideration the circumstances and motives.

Such insight may indicate that patience, understanding, and compassion are needed instead of counsel and correction.
{ Proverbs 10:19;16:23;19:11 }