Day 26 | Imperfect – Application

Read Galatians 6

As we discussed yesterday, God expects Believers to hold each other accountable. This expectation is one reason why living in Christian community is essential for the Believer. Every one of us is prone to falling into a pattern of sin. The enemy wants us to isolate ourselves from each other so he can gain a foothold in our lives. By living in vulnerable, intentional community with others who actively follow Christ, we keep ourselves from falling into sinful traps. When a brother or sister in Christ does fall into sin, those in Christian community are to “restore such a person with a gentle spirit” (Galatians 6:1).

With that said, it’s essential we watch out for ourselves when we approach a fellow Believer about their sin. At the end of verse one, Paul warns a person who goes to help a fallen Believer faces the potential danger of being tempted in the same way. Additionally, pride could very easily creep into our hearts when we’re helping restore a fellow Believer. We might be tempted to think, “At least I’m not as bad a sinner as this guy.” Matthew 7:5 addresses our sinfulness when Jesus commands us to “First take the beam of wood out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to take the splinter out of your brother’s eye.”

It can be intimidating to confront someone about their sin. We might be tempted to think these instructions are only for certain Christians. However, the Spirit of Christ abides in us all, giving us each exactly what we need. People who are led by the Spirit possess the fruit of the Spirit, addressed in Galatians 5. If you bear the fruit of the Spirit and depend on Christ, you are equipped to go to a brother or sister in Christ about their sin.

Pray for God to show you any paths to restoration you should walk.