KneEmail - a devotional by Mike Benson associated with Forthright Magazine
Restore
JAMES 5:19-20, TELLS US that when we restore one who has wandered from the truth, we save him from death and we cover a multitude of sins...
What more motivation could we possibly need to become active in the restoration of souls than to know that God can use our efforts to give life to those that were dead. What an incentive! Before one can be a restorer of souls, he must be convinced that there are folks who need restoring. It is sad but true, Christians can and do fall. Consider the following:
. Two did fall. 1 Tim. 1:18-20
. Some fell from grace. Gal. 5:4-7
. Others will fall. 1 Tim. 4:1-3; Heb. 3:12; 2 Tim. 4:4-10
. Thankfully, we can be prevented from falling. Jude 24
Also, before one can be an effective restorer of souls he must be able to see those who are displaying evidence of departing the faith. Sometimes the signs of falling are subtle, usually they are not.
Empty pews, aloofness, harsh attitudes and words, and reluctance to give money, time or energy to the Body of Christ, are a few of the more obvious indications that a soul is in serious jeopardy. See the signs. See the consequences. Throw out the life-line (Jeff Abrams).
KneEmail: "Brethren, if anyone among you wanders from the truth, and someone turns him back, let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul from death and cover a multitude of sins" (Jas. 5:19-20).