RECOVERY FROM A FALL (9) – RESTORATION PHASE

“Pastor, we do not think he should be given any role yet in the church after such an act. He is not repentant yet”, they queried.

“But what is the measure that you used as proof that he is not repentant yet? Has he not already shown signs of brokenness? Let him be restored gradually so he can enjoy once again the blessing of serving the Lord before the enemy takes advantage of us also and we become trapped in unforgiveness”.

The young man was finally given the privilege to serve once more. He did it diligently and also kept his way pure. He continued to grow in the faith, even after moving to another city, and became a great asset to his local church.

It is very easy for others to be caught in the trap of judging a man who has fallen and then get tied in the act that they become hesitant or fearful to restore a brother.

Scriptures warn about this repeatedly. Paul told the Galatian church to be careful:

Galatians 6:1 NLT
[1] Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself.

It must be done gently and humbly, or else we can be caught in a dangerous trap. What is the trap?

The trap of losing a believer to the enemy because of discouragement. We have lost foot soldiers because we keep stoning the repentant.

2 Corinthians 2:7-8 NLT
[7] Now, however, it is time to forgive and comfort him. Otherwise he may be overcome by discouragement. [8] So I urge you now to reaffirm your love for him.

The devil uses this to keep them down also:

2 Corinthians 2:11 NLT
[11] so that Satan will not outsmart us. For we are familiar with his evil schemes.

We should be careful not be fall into the same sin also. Hate the sin but not the sinner:

Jude 1:22-23 NLT
[22] And you must show mercy to those whose faith is wavering. [23] Rescue others by snatching them from the flames of judgment. Show mercy to still others, but do so with great caution, hating the sins that contaminate their lives.

Restore gently. Do not do it in pride or self-righteousness.

Restore gradually. Do not rush into critical and vulnerable roles. They can work under supervision.

Restore genuinely. Do not keep viewing them suspiciously.

Restore graciously. Do not keep referring to their past. Arm them for the future.

This is the heart cry of a man ready to be restored:

Psalms 51:11 NLT
Do not banish me from your presence, and don’t take your Holy Spirit from me.

Do you have that same cry?

© temilOluwa Ola, Eruwa

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© temilOluwa Ola, Eruwa

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