Today’s Bible reading is Galatians chapter 6
(Read the entire New Testament in 2014 by reading only one chapter each day)
Sometimes in church there are people we love who fall into the trap of sin. What should we do when this happens? Paul told the Galatian Christians to “restore” them. First, we must attempt to reach our straying brothers because it is the right thing to do. When a fellow believer falls into sin we must seek to win them back. Secondly, we must approach our straying brother in the right spirit. If our approach is haughty or condemning then we will be ineffective. No one likes to be talked down or a condescending attitude. Not only must we attempt to restore straying ones, and with the right approach, but also we must be aware of the risks involved. When dealing with temptations that others are facing we must be careful that we don’t fall into the same sin. Restoring those who stray is a blessed ministry, but it is also a difficult ministry. Paul said, “Bear one another’s burdens.” (Galatians 6:2) Sometimes this can be very draining. For this reason it is important for us to know that we each have a specific job to do. Each believer should in this sense bear his own load. Do your job and don’t leave it for someone else to do. Whatever we sow we will also reap. In this wonderful but also tiring work let us not grow weary or lose heart, but work knowing we shall someday soon enjoy a great harvest.
Prayer: “Dear Father, we pray for those on our hearts today who are struggling in sin, restore them to fellowship with You. As we go to them give us grace to go in the right spirit, and protect us from falling into the trap of sin. In Jesus name. Amen.”
Randy J. McPheron
T.H.E.M. 