A Lifeline

If you falter in a time of trouble,
    how small is your strength!
¹¹Rescue those being led away to death;
    hold back those staggering toward slaughter. Proverbs 24:10-11

In one of the smallest books of the Bible there’s a very powerful lesson about our duty as believers. Jude 22-23 admonishes us to be a lifeline to our fellow Christians who struggle with their faith.

Be merciful to those who doubt; save others by snatching them from the fire; to others show mercy, mixed with fear—hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.
Jude 22-23

I’m sure all of us have heard a Christian friend or acquaintance talk about their doubts at one time or another. How many of us, however, have stepped up and been that lifeline? To help remind them of the promises of God? To encourage them that, although they may feel far from the Lord, He will never leave them? Or even with truth and love shine a light on a sin that is leading them to death?

We Christians during the last 50 years have been so hesitant to take up this mantle, worried we might sound “judgy” or “preachy” that we have allowed so many of our brothers and sisters to fall into the fire. We have forgotten the final truth of Jesus. He will come to judge the wicked who have turned their backs to Him. Yes, Jesus is love. But throughout His time here with us His underlining message was our salvation – saving us from the “slaughter.”

Friends, the time is now to throw out that lifeline to that Christian who is faltering. You know the one. They’ve already popped up in your head. They’ve been pulled to the way of the world because of its shiny offerings. With mercy, love, truth and fear, God is asking you intervene. It may be through intense prayer. It may also look like a tough conversation. Ask Him to show you the way.

Heavenly Father, I get afraid sometimes when it comes to speaking truth into others. With the Holy Spirit’s help and guidance I will be a rescuer in your name. Amen