Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, Whom He has redeemed from the hand of the adversary. Psalms 107:2 NASB
I don't know about you, but I am SO thankful for the grace of God. I try to live a life that pleases Him, but if you know me, (heck, even if you don't!) you know that I mess up. Sometimes I mess up big time. I make mistakes daily that affect others and have an effect on my walk. Thank you Jesus for your grace!
I try not to air my mistakes. I don't call the news people, or publish my sins across Facebook. If I start down an unhealthy path, God has placed an amazing husband and wonderful, Godly friends in my life who keep me in check and help guide my life in a way that follows Him. I praise Jesus that forgiveness and grace exist, and that most of the matters I deal with are done in the privacy of my relationship with God and those He placed in my life.
Could you imagine life if God held a grudge? If we weren't able to grow from our mistakes, and the people who now guide us would instead abandon us?
Or if the whole world saw our every sin.
Redemption is personal. It is something that not everyone sees. An acquaintance once told me something very wise. "Don't tell others about the fights between you and your husband. All they see is the fight. They don't see the reconciliation. They don't know what God has done to restore you."
Wow. At the time, I was a young believer. This concept holds true for all relationships. It's one reason gossip can be so damaging. And so often in the church, I see this happen. People see the offense, the problem, the drama. But no one is ever able to fully see the redemption. That happens between a person and God. So what do people do?
Judge.
"Do you remember what so and so did? I can't imagine her getting to lead a small group!" "HE is allowed to preach? Don't you remember what happened just a year ago?"
I am so glad the world doesn't see everything I do that way. Don't get me wrong. There are times when we have an obligation to step in and say, "Friend, I think you need to spend some more time with God and Godly counsel." IF you are close enough to really know what's going on. IF you approach it prayerfully and Biblically. IF God has placed you in a position of influence in his/her life.
Otherwise, pray for the person to hear God. Pray that he/she seeks wise, Godly counsel, and pray for restoration! Pray that the leadership/counsel surrounding the person holds the individual accountable.
And WHEN God restores that person (because our God works all things for the good of those who love Him!), rejoice! And WHEN that person is restored to (or placed in) a position of leadership, ask God to open your heart to His grace and love and mercy. Give others everything God has given you.
I would not be where I am if not for my mistakes. I would hate to be denied the ability to do what God called me to do, especially by the church. If I make a huge mistake in my life, I pray that God will restore me, those hurt will forgive me, and the church will rejoice with me. I pray that holds true for every member of the body. So thankful for a God who forgives, redeems, and restores.
