Resetting the Setting

Our trailblazing neighbor offered to cut away the trees, brush, and vines that blocked the view of a twenty-plus-foot magnolia tree since he already had the heavy equipment on the property to cut trails through the woods. But to clear the debris infringing the tree, he had first to uproot and move a giant tree stump and a fallen tree from the last hurricane that blocked the way. The process was slow since he was careful not to damage the tree we were trying to rescue, but his persistence paid off; he freed the tree from the forest’s invasion less than two hours later. God used our neighbor and us to recover the tree that had no flowers, and the color of its leaves hinted at the need for soil adjustments. But the next day, to our amazement, the magnolia had a few small flowers—the sun’s light gave it new life.

Although Christians are not perfect, genuine followers of Christ will not deliberately seek ways to sin, dishonoring the One who gave new life to them. But we are susceptible to sudden sin temptations and will succumb to them when not watchful. Paul instructs believers in handling such matters: “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted” (Galatians 6:1).

Unlike a tree with no say in its location or state of being, we can decide but sometimes make poor choices. Life’s clutter can slowly invade people’s space, and before realizing the toll of the debris overtaking them, it stunts their growth. Other times, people’s passions suddenly overtake their good senses. The apostle urges those led by God’s Spirit to intercede on behalf of these folks with prayer, godly counsel, and a forgiving spirit to restore them—reset them, even if it hurts—to bring them back where they belong. Regardless of their situation, we have God’s powerful Word and His Spirit within us to help them see the “Son-light” so they can flourish once again. None of us can remove the consequences of sin or poor life choices from others, but we can point them to or remind them of the One who forgives and holds the answer to all of our needs. Don’t miss that Paul says we are to help those overtaken in a fault in the spirit of meekness, remembering we could need such help one day and would want it given lovingly and patiently by someone with a forgiving heart.