“You who live by the Spirit should restore.” Gal 6:1 NIV
Sometimes when we fall we can get up by ourselves; other times we need someone to help us. And sadly, not all Christians are willing to help. Sometimes they feel that by extending grace to someone they are condoning their sin.
But Paul knocked that argument down when he wrote, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Eph 4:32 NIV).
Why should we be restorers?
(1) Because God tells us to. “If someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves…you also may be tempted” (Gal 6:1 NIV).
It’s pride that causes us to point an accusing finger instead of extending a helping hand to those who fall. It makes us think we’re better than someone else; incapable of falling like they did. You would be surprised what you would do in certain circumstances!
Paul writes, “We are just as capable of messing it up as they were. Don’t be so…self-confident…You could fall flat on your face as easily as anyone else” (1Co 10:12 MSG).
(2) Because Jesus is our example. Jesus had no time for the Pharisees who hid their sins behind a religious mask. But not one time did He condemn someone who was caught in sin and overtaken by temptation and failure. The minute they reached for Him, He willingly restored them.
Someone has said the church is the only army that shoots its wounded. Today, others are watching us to see if the grace we preach to others is the same grace we extend to one another. Let’s not disappoint them.
Forgive? Restore? Really? Yes, really.
Prayer:
Father, first I repent and ask you to forgive me for holding onto bad feelings toward others. I forgive and release them to You. Deal with them in Your mercy and loving-kindness. Help me to show the same love and forgiveness that I have received from You to those around me. Amen.
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