Gentle Restoration

Scripture – Galatians 6:1-5: ¹Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. ²Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. ³If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. ⁴Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else, ⁵for each one should carry his own load.

Reflection: – Wow! There are too many interesting things in this passage to touch on in this space. Right from the start I see the idea of gentle restoration when someone is caught in a sin.

First of all, restoration is the goal, not rejection. I am to reach out to the person with the hope of bringing them back. My sinful nature would lead me to act out of anger and hurt, wash my hands of the whole matter, and let the person go. The fact is Christ has not treated me that way. Many times He has reached out to me and restored me to a right relationship with Him. He’s my model to follow.

Second, I’m to do this gently. It’s no good if I go pointing a finger with pride and arrogance. Rather, I go in love and humility.

Third, I need to keep an eye on myself so I don’t slip and fall with them. It’s like helping someone up who’s fallen down. If I slip and fall too, we’re both in trouble.

Who has reached out to you offering this gentle restoration? Who might need you to reach out to them?