What we must keep in mind when we're looking down, is we must not look down on those in the valley. Those on a spiritual high mustn't discount those who are currently in the depths. This happens too often. Keep in mind, Jesus is the Author and Finisher of our faith and theirs as well. Our faith is tested from time to time and not one of us is immune. If we puff ourselves up, we could be setting ourselves up for a fall. Reminds me of the lyrics of an 80s hit:
"But don't forget, it's me who put you where you are now
And I can put you back down too"
Or to put it another way, "And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted." (Matt 23:12)
When someone close to us is backsliding, that is when we need to come alongside, not to razz them for their sinning, but to spoon-feed them God's Word since they are unable to feed themselves. Encourage them with a word spoken in due season, as the Psalmist says. Bless, do not condemn. It might just be you next time that needs the encouragement and that friend may have to do likewise for you.
Hard times, good times, end times -- all times, we need to be there for one another.
Maranatha!
"No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it." - 1 Cor 10:13
"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. Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. For if anyone thinks himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself. But let each one examine his own work, and then he will have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. For each one shall bear his own load." - Gal 6:1-5
No comments:
Post a Comment