CAUTION: WATCH YOUR STEP

Dare we point our finger at those who have sinned, for we have four fingers pointing back at us. The compassion and empathy it takes to restore requires a spiritual head and heart. This week our Devotional team tackles this all-too-common challenge called, “Restoration!” Meditate on this scripture and may its conviction humble you

Who has not been put on alert upon seeing an actual “CAUTION” sign on a roadway—for vehicles or pedestrians? They warn us of deer crossings, or of wet / icy passageways that may be dangerous to unwary passersby. Caution and discernment are just as essential in human relationships, especially where our title verse is concerned. Having failed to give ample respect to both types of scenarios—be it a posted roadway sign or my “people- observation meter,” I’ve learned over many years to employ extreme caution in my dealings with all types of people. Simply put, you should never be presumptuous about how one will respond to you in the wake of your earnest attempt to obey today’s title verse. Your motives, even if honorable and aimed at peaceableness, may be completely misconstrued!

The spiritual maturity level of the recipient of your attempt at meek and humble correction may lead you to regret the attempt! Sometimes, after receiving an irate response from an erring believer, you may be tempted to liken the experience to that of casting pearls before swine, against which our Savior cautions us in Matthew 7:6! What am I saying here? Inasmuch as any earnest attempt to obey Galatians 6:1 can be a risky undertaking, it carries with it certain strong prerequisites: (#1) pray for the Spirit’s oversight of what should be a discreet [i.e., private] verbal exchange with that habitually erring believer whose habitual trespass you have observed. Ideally, and if thoughtfully carried out, such a meek expression of concern for a habitually trespassing brother or sister will be well received—reminding one of Proverbs 25:12--“To one who listens, valid criticism is like a gold earring or other gold jewelry.” [NLT]

PRAYER: Gracious and merciful Father, help us to make it our holy ambition to consistently strive toward spiritual maturity, being willing and capable of digesting solid spiritual food, while making a true and lasting impact in Your kingdom on this earth! In Christ’s glorious name we thank You—amen!
By Sis. Denise Diggs