S)"1 Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted. 2 Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ."
Galatians 6:1-2 (NASB)
O) I really despise the phrase, "Don't judge me." because all too often that's code for, "I know it's wrong, but I don't want to stop and you're not in charge of me." The unfortunate truth, though, is that the phrase came about because of a failing to fulfill the above verses. It can be hard sometimes to have compassion for some one who seems to be so intent on self-destruction. The important thing to remember, though, is that they are still victims of the same enemy we have. This is particularly true if the person is our spritual brother or sister and even more poignant if it's literal family. Strangely, sometimes it's easier to have compassion and mercy and grace toward some one we don't know. I think maybe the details of a person's life make it hard for us to understand why they are having the difficulties they're having. Maybe we feel like they should know better. Maybe we feel like we've given them enough chances. Maybe we feel like... the exact opposite of Christ...
A) If it happens that I have to point out a persons trespass, the important thing is to remember the goal: restoration. Gentleness might be the biggest difficulty, because people can get defensive. I really think, though, that if I'm coming from a place of helping with a goal of recovering what is lost (time, peace, life, relationships, etc), then I have the best hope of genuinely helping some one. All of this is predicated on the person accepting help, though. Unfortunately, sometimes people don't want to change. But, since it's not my words that change people, and not even just their own will power, but the power of Christ Jesus, then I will continue to rely on the timing given by the Holy Spirit, to know when to take oppotunity. In the meantime, I can continue to bear with them.
P) Father, You deal so graciously, so mercifully with me. Never let me be anything less than compassionate, gracious, and merciful with my brothers and sisters, God. I have no right to be anything but humble before everyone's trespasses. It really doesn't matter what the offense is, God, because I know that I deserved the worst and I can stand only in Christ. Holy Spirit, lead me in Your perfect timing to reach out to people who need spiritual restoration. Give me words to speak and the right attitude, the right delivery, so they can accept my help in bringing them back to You, LORD. Let me always walk in humility, remembering that I do not solve any problems, but I can only show them how You can. Help me be gentle. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
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