Concerned members of the family of God sometimes have to be involved in rescue operations! A fellow brother or sister in the Lord “wanders from the truth” and are “at risk.” They’ve been deceived, or they’ve strayed, they’ve abandoned “their first love,” and have fallen back into sin. They are in great spiritual danger! What to do?!
James helps us, he said…
“My brothers (and sisters), if anyone among you (i.e. a fellow Christ follower) wanders from the truth and someone (that’s you or me) brings him (or her) back, let them know that whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his (or her) soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins!” (from James 5:19-20)
A noble task! A risky one (because they may not respond positively to the effort)! But an act of concern and love! One that requires the guidance and partnership with the Holy Spirit. In fact, I couldn’t resist including this additional Scripture that came to mind this morning as I read what James had to say…
“Brothers (and sisters), if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him (or her) in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted!” (Galatians 6:1)
Fellow Christians are “brothers” and “sisters” – part of God’s family and our Spiritual family! Love constrains us to care about one another’s spiritual welfare! If a fellow Christian strays from the truth and slips back into sin, it seems to me that we’re compelled, with the guidance and help of the Holy Spirit, to attempt a “rescue operation!’
Coffee With The Lord 