Devotion 2: Restoring Gently, Watch Yourself
Scripture: Galatians 6:1 – “Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.”
Reflection:
The church is not a museum for perfect people; it’s a hospital for sinners saved by grace. In Galatians 6:1, Paul reminds us that when a brother or sister falls into sin, our job isn’t to judge or gossip but to restore them gently. This takes courage and humility. It’s easy to point fingers or feel superior when someone stumbles, but Paul calls us to a higher standard. We’re to approach them with the same grace Christ showed us, remembering that we, too, are vulnerable to temptation. A good church doesn’t kick people when they’re down; it offers a hand to lift them up. This might mean having a tough conversation with a friend about a harmful choice they’re making or praying with someone who’s struggling with guilt. But always, it’s done with gentleness and self-awareness, knowing we’re all dependent on God’s grace. Let’s commit to being a church that restores and points the fallen back to Christ.
Application:
Reflect on a time when you were tempted to judge someone for their sin or mistake. How might you have responded with gentleness instead? Today, pray for someone you know who is struggling with sin or guilt. Ask God to give you an opportunity to encourage or support them in a way that points them to His grace. Write down one way you can guard your own heart against temptation this week, perhaps by staying accountable to a trusted friend or spending more time in prayer.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for Your grace that restores me when I fall. Help me to extend that same grace to others, approaching them with gentleness and love rather than judgment. Keep me mindful of my own weaknesses, and guard me from temptation. Use me to build a church that lifts up the broken and points them to You. In Your holy name, Amen.