Scripture

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)

Devotional

Like the merciful physician who mends a broken bone is the spiritual man who restores a fallen brother. There are few sights more beautiful than a truly repentant person. The return of the prodigal, the restoration of a friendship or the healing of a marriage causes heaven and earth to rejoice. Instead of condemning the wayward, we are to seek to restore them. Instead of judging and sentencing, we are to show mercy and compassion. This we are to do not to condone the state of the fallen, but to renew. When we see the mighty fall we are to consider ourselves lest we likewise fall. Therefore, let us be about the restoration business. Be an encourager. Be a builder. Anyone can judge. Anyone can condemn. Demolition is much easier than construction. Therefore, be a strengthener; be spiritual and restore the one overtaken in a trespass.

Thought For The Night

“To forgive someone involves three things. First, it means to forego the right of striking back. One rejects the urge to repay gossip with gossip and a bad turn with a worse turn. Second, it means replacing the feeling of resentment and anger with good will, a love which seeks the other’s welfare, not harm. Third, it means the forgiving person takes concrete steps to restore good relations.” Alexander C. Dejong, author “Alcoholism and Codependency,” Tyndale House (February 1, 1991).

Evening Text

Galatians 6:1: 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.

Looking for Answers

Does the justice of God demand condemnation of sin?
How will we, who have been condemned to death, be set free from the judgment of God?
Have you been redeemed from your condemnation?

Evening Study Guide

Defining: “Condemn”: To reveal guilt, judge as wrong and sentence to a perceived just punishment.

Referencing: “He said to her, ‘Woman, where are those accusers of yours? Has no one condemned you?’ She said, ‘No one, Lord.’ And Jesus said to her, ‘Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more.’” John 8:10-11.

Applying: If you are no longer under condemnation, be merciful to those who are—forgiving as you have been forgiven.