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October 7 Brethren, even if a man is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, each one looking to yourself, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens and thus fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:1,2. Paul is not saying that we are to act superior to anyone caught in a sin. Instead he is saying that we are to be so in contact with our brethren that we know when they need our help. All the while we are to look to Jesus so that we are not tempted into the same sin. The implication is that we are to mourn for the condition of our brothers and sisters—the condition that is leading to the trespass. It is one matter to mourn over their sins, but it a much deeper and Godly gift to mourn over their condition before God. We are to be sensitive to how others are trusting or not trusting God. When we see that their pattern of life is one dictated by fleshly desires, we should be able to come alongside and suggest a better pattern for their life—before the sinful way becomes more serious. This is the process of restoration called for in this Scripture. It is better to catch the coming trespass before it occurs. Will our fellow Christians accept this ‘intrusion’ into their lives? Yes, if it is done in love. We always need to remove the log from our own eyes before we suggest anything to them. So it is in the body of Christ as we work out our salvation. Thank You Father for instilling the love and compassion of Jesus into our hearts. We need to be forever aware of the spiritual walk of our brothers. Make us vessels that care more about others than ourselves. We thankYou. Amen. |
