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- Apr 25, 2006
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LIFT THOSE WHO FALL
'If another believer is overcome ... help that person' Galatians 6:1
Few of us are as nasty as to any outright tear into everyone we think is out of line. But it's very easy to correct people 'out of our own righteousness', acting like we're the moral police. Let's be careful to protect our motives from secret desires to elevate ourselves by condemning those around us. Only God has the perfect combination of holiness and mercy needed to stand in judgment of the human heart.
Today's full verse tells us what we're to do. 'If another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself.' If you feel it is right to help someone in this sort of situation out, be very sensitive. Don't be harsh, and don't forget your own weakness - you're human too. The better you know your own heart and tendencies, the less annoyed you'll feel about others when you see their shortcomings, and the better you'll be able to help them. Remember that it's God's place to judge, and your place to help others back onto the right path, with His Spirit guiding you.
What now? Is someone you know struggling? Take the time to spend time with them and pray first for God to shape your words.
written by Bob Gass
'If another believer is overcome ... help that person' Galatians 6:1
Few of us are as nasty as to any outright tear into everyone we think is out of line. But it's very easy to correct people 'out of our own righteousness', acting like we're the moral police. Let's be careful to protect our motives from secret desires to elevate ourselves by condemning those around us. Only God has the perfect combination of holiness and mercy needed to stand in judgment of the human heart.
Today's full verse tells us what we're to do. 'If another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself.' If you feel it is right to help someone in this sort of situation out, be very sensitive. Don't be harsh, and don't forget your own weakness - you're human too. The better you know your own heart and tendencies, the less annoyed you'll feel about others when you see their shortcomings, and the better you'll be able to help them. Remember that it's God's place to judge, and your place to help others back onto the right path, with His Spirit guiding you.
What now? Is someone you know struggling? Take the time to spend time with them and pray first for God to shape your words.
written by Bob Gass
