For thought and meditation

[rl69]

Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted.—Galatians 6:1 (http://harvest.us3.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=4f108f827aed8d503b5fca9fa&id=f4dd974283&e=3dd732485b)Not every person who quotes the Bible is necessarily a believer. Those who quote the Scriptures to condemn others often are the guiltiest of all. Those who are quick to find fault with others often have greater fault in their own lives. The people who are so quick to come down on someone else often are guilty of far worse.

This is exactly what Jesus was talking about when He said in the Sermon on the Mount, "And why do you look at the speck in your brother's eye, but do not consider the plank in your own eye?" (Matthew 7:3).

It's a humorous illustration, but it makes a point. Jesus was saying, "You are so quick to focus on the minutiae in another person's life, yet you are guilty of overt sin."

If we know of someone who is falling into sin, our objective should be to confront and restore them, not condemn and destroy them. Galatians 6:1 says, "Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted." Our objective is to restore, not destroy.

I find it interesting that this verse goes on to say, "Considering yourself lest you also be tempted." One day it could be you. One day you could be the person who stumbles and falls. One day you could be the person who makes that mistake, who commits that sin. And hopefully someone will come along in graciousness and boldness and help you get back on your feet again.

As the old hymn says, "Prone to wander—Lord, I feel it—prone to leave the God I love." We have to constantly keep our guard up because we all have the potential to fall

[buckwheatpaul]

We should put others first. In "Our Chapel" we do that by praying for those that are hurting and need God's help. Thanks for the post and a mini Bible Study...Paul

[Preacher Jim]

That was a good verse and study

[Pine Baron]

Thanks rl. This is sure a good one to consider.

[Blackwater]

Wow! What a powerful message this one is! And this bit of advice and counsel runs totally against the mainstream ethic of today's "modern" world! It's a funny thing how we humans tend to imitate each other so consistently. We have a strong tendency to do whatever those around us do, and think like they think.

This can be functional when it's used to ease common activities, but when applied to the more serious matters in life, it can be pure poison! And yet, we so often do what we've trained ourselves to do. Maybe out of habit, maybe out of simple lack of objective thought, but that's our strong tendency. As Christians, we're supposed to do as we've been advised, and think and consider what to do before we speak or act. If we did this simple thing more, there's be much less sorrow and dissension in this world. But mostly, we just do what we have habitually done in the past.

This is why someone once quipped, "There ARE no 'small things' in life. It all matters!" Thanks for another great one, RL, and one we all need so very much to keep re-learning on a daily basis.