Christians screw up! Yes, even I do. Shocking to find out, I know! As a pastor, I will go to my grave with the secret confessions of many others. Hurting and wounded, imperfect, yet redeemed people make mistakes and even willfully sin. When they do, what should be our response? The apostle Paul, after warning us of the danger of legalism and licentiousness alike, says ‘do what spiritual people do’! Shoot the wounded! Kick the man when he is down! Ok, just kidding. Some of you were actually excited about that prospect. We all have a long way to go. There is a tension to manage between coddling someone in sin (and thereby affirming unrighteousness) and forgiving a repentant brother. We are to bear one another’s burdens, yet allow each person to carry his own load. When our brother gets in over their head and looks to you for help… help him with God’s wisdom! After all, it may be me in need of help next. Let’s not shoot our wounded.
Brothers and sisters, even if a person is caught in any wrongdoing, you who are spiritual are to restore such a person in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you are not tempted as well. Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ. For if anyone thinks that he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. But each one must examine his own work, and then he will have reason for boasting, but to himself alone, and not to another. For each one will bear his own load. Galatians 6:1-5 NASB
Who is struggling in sin, dug a deep hole and then jumped into it, or has royally screwed up that I can help?
God, as this day begins- I am so glad for the goodness and mercy You have shown me all my life. In addition, You have often sheltered me from public embarrassment. My wife, who knows me well, loves me like crazy. Go figure!? I wonder how I might as a pastor/shepherd care for someone today in need or as an attorney rescue someone from difficulty. I think I know. Continue to impart to me an attitude of a stretcher-bearer.
