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Word Filled Wednesday

 wfw-2008sm

This verse was in my daily Bible reading this week and stirred my heart:

serena-darien-stubborncolor-1My dear friends, if you know people who have wandered off from God's truth, don't write them off. Go after them. Get them back and you will have rescued precious lives from destruction and prevented an epidemic of wandering away from God.  James 5:19,20 The Message

Each of us are born with a free choice and free will.  When those we know make choices that we don’t agree with, it may be easy to be critical and judgmental.  It may even be tempting to tell them “I told you so” or “You wouldn’t listen to me” etc. 

This verse brings about an attitude of not just forgiveness, but that all correction should be with the sole purpose to restore those who have gone astray.  Instead of just letting them go, there should be some action to go after them and lovingly point them in the right direction. 

This action of the heart may apply to a minor infraction or to a willful rebellious act.  God is the One who forgives and restores but the attitude that paves the path to Him should be covered with grace, hope and love.

May we always be mindful to look out for those who need a special touch of God’s love and hope.

Comments

  1. Amen, may we all so lead.

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  2. You are so right. I'm often tempted to say, "See! If you had done it my way, this wouldn't have happened." But, oh, how horrible that attitude is, and it is destructive. Thanks for the gentle reminder today from scripture.

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  3. Great WFW and one we should all ponder when tempted to judge.

    Hugs,
    Lisa

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  4. So well said...why do we resist the urge to "go after them?" This is just a wonderful reminder to me personally today...

    thanks for sharing!
    peace,
    lori

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  5. So true. Makes me sober minded.

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  6. Well said. Thanks for the reminder!
    Blessings,
    April

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  7. WOW! What a great interpretation of this scripture! I really like it! :-) That gets a huge AMEN!

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  8. Amen...beautiful reflection on this verse....

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  9. yes, you are right it should be done with love and compassion.

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  10. Terrific post! Visiting from Talkin' Thursdays. Have a great day!

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  11. Amen, we need to speak the truth in love . I think our attitude in such a situation can make the difference in how it is received.
    Blessings,
    ~Myrna

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