This Day in History: 0000-09-23

September 23 – Jude:20-23

But you, dear friends, must build each other up in  your most holy faith, pray in the power of the Holy Spirit, and await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will bring you eternal life. In this way, you will keep yourselves safe in God’s love. And you must show mercy to those whose faith is wavering. Rescue others by snatching them from the flames of judgement. Show mercy to still others, but do so with great caution, hating the sins that contaminate their lives.

Friends, we are surely living in the end of days, and it is so important that we keep our focus on the truths of Scripture.  Let’s not get caught up in the drama that so often permeates our churches.  Let’s not fall into the temptation to tear down our brothers and sisters in Christ.  Would we ever take a sledge hammer to our own arm or leg?  Surely not!  So why do we tear apart our own body in the church?  We are meant to build each other up!

Let’s face it, we’re all going to have seasons in our lives when our faith will come under attack.  The forces of darkness will make sure of that!  In those times, what we so desperately need is for the rest of the body to lessen the burden upon us and strengthen us.  So let’s do our best to do the same for others.  Let’s be devoted to praying for each other.  Let’s look for opportunities to show mercy.  Let’s be quick to intervene when a brother or sister is heading for destruction.  But let us do so with caution, lest we be seduced by the lure of sin.

Here’s the thing, we are safe in the love of our Lord Jesus Christ.  We are simply awaiting the day when we will be brought into eternal life, secure forever with our Lord.  If we fully understand that truth, then building each other up will be natural.