Brothers, even if a man is caught in some fault, you who are spiritual must restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; looking to yourself so that you also aren’t tempted. Galatians 6:1 WEB
In chapter five of Paul’s letter to the Galatians, he wrote about the freedom that comes from a life in Christ. This freedom is the freedom from sin and condemnation. He continues teaching the faithful to live life by the Spirit of God. In doing so, Paul reiterates the teaching of Jesus who encouraged the faithful to love one another as we love ourselves. Additionally, Paul directs the church to walk by the Spirit writing in Galatians 5:16, “But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you won’t fulfill the lust of the flesh. WEB”
Paul’s teaching in chapter five culminates in his description of the fruits of the Holy Spirit. Prior to listing the virtues of the Spirit of God, Paul lists the deeds of the flesh. Among these obvious sins are sexual immorality, hatred, and strife. In contrast, Paul writes in Galatians 5:22-23, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law. WEB”
Walk by the Spirit
Transitioning from describing how individual Christians should live by the Spirit of God, Paul relates how groups of believers can live together in Christ. Paul writes in Galatians 5:25-26, “If we live by the Spirit, let’s also walk by the Spirit. Let’s not become conceited, provoking one another, and envying one another. WEB” He follows by encouraging the faithful to restore those found at fault with a spirit of gentleness. This is consistent with the teaching of Christ who said in Matthew 6:14, “For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. WEB”
Rather than spitefully condemning those who offend us, Paul teaches that we restore a brother found at fault with a spirit of gentleness. After all, we too required correction and restoration by our righteous Father in heaven through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. In the Spirit of God, we do not ignore transgressions. But, with patience and gentleness, we attempt to restore the fallen while maintaining self-control that we too do not fall into error.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the truth and guidance of scripture Thank you for the support of your Holy Spirit. Give me wisdom to share the truth of your word with the world and my fellow believers. Help me to demonstrate your love with a spirit of gentleness. In Jesus name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: The Righteous One
